The Alisal Union School District is proud to announce the Fall 2024 art and poetry contest winners.
In this year’s theme: “My Roots Make Me Proud” students explored the elements of their own culture that make them feel connected to a greater whole. Some delved into their families’ histories, while others looked to their parents’ country of origin, their foods, flavors, and celebrations. Since Alisal USD is rooted in a primarily Spanish-speaking immigrant enclave, most of the entries reflected Latino culture and its many expressions such as food – “I love tacos” and music – mariachi is always a favorite. It was particularly heartwarming to receive entries from students who hail from different countries, such as Shaibi from Yemen; Sofia whose roots are planted in Mexico and Vietnam; and Cai from the Philippines. This means that students feel welcome in their differences, something that should be celebrated and encouraged.
It’s also exciting to see more poetry entries in Spanish. “Hidalgo de Mi Corazón” from Axel is a heartfelt tribute to a Mexican state rich with indigenous traditions, something that comes through in Axel’s poem.
This year, Alisal USD has launched a Visual and Performing Arts Program funded through Proposition 28. The District’s Visual and Performing Arts Teachers on special assignment (the VAPA TOSAs) embraced the Art and Poetry contest and were instrumental in its organization. With their support, the Alisal Art and Poetry contest, already a cherished tradition, promised to become an institution that will live for years to come.
We had 43 winners from 12 schools, including the Alisal Virtual Academy. The overall enthusiasm, energy coming through those creations is something to behold. Alisal USD students are talented indeed. Artists, take a bow!
Thank you to all the teachers who encouraged their students to participate, and everyone who supported this contest by selecting winners or promoting participation.
Winners will be recognized during a special celebration at 5:30 pm on December 9 at the Sanchez Ed Center, 901 N. Sanborn Rd. They will receive a medal and a $20 gift card, courtesy of the Salinas Alisal Rotary Club and the Ernie Camacho Foundation. We are grateful for everyone’s support of this amazing project.
Alisal Community
5-6
Jocelyn Z., Poetry, 1st Place
Salvador O., Art, 1st Place
Alisal Virtual Academy
5-6
Harry O., Art, 1st Place
El Ham S., Art, 1st Place
Bardin
3-4
Emily E., Art, 1st Place (Judge’s Award)
5-6
Kimberly S., Art, 1st Place
Genesis G., Art, 1st Place
Sofia P., Art, 1st Place
Angel S., Poetry, 1st Place
Sara R., Poetry, 1st Place
Creekside
Preschool-2
Cai R., Art, 1st Place
3-4
Renata P, Art, 1st Place
Karen B, Art, 1st Place
Vanessa R., Poetry, 1st Place
Frank Paul
3-4
Manuel Ch., Art, 1st Place
Sofia G., Art, 1st Place
Fremont
Preschool-2
Leonardo Q., Art, 1st Place
3-4
Alexa J, Art, Honorable Mention
5-6
Steven M., Art, Honorable Mention
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Preschool-2
Ellie Z., Art, 1st Place
Aaron R., Art, Runner Up
Caleb R., Art, Honorable Mention
Gloria C, Art, Honorable Mention
3-4
Emmanuel S., Art, 1st Place
Fatima V., Art, Honorable Mention
Axel O, Poetry, 1st Place
Jenny R., Poetry, Honorable Mention
5-6
Sarai F., Art, 1st Place
Jesse G. Sánchez
Preschool-2
Daina R., Art, 1st Place
Elias M., Poetry, 1st Place
John E. Steinbeck
3-4
Sofia M., Art, 1st Place
Adal E., Art, 1st Place
Nicole S., Art, Honorable Mention
Devyn O., Art, Honorable Mention
Gabriel J., Poetry, 1st Place
Monte Bella
Preschool-2
Kendy H., Art, 1st Place
3-4
Melanie F., Art, 1st Place
Henry M., Art, 1st Place
Kamila O., Poetry, 1st Place
Camila J., Poetry, Honorable Mention
Dr. Oscar F. Loya
5-6
Maricarmen T., Art, 1st place
Anthony B., Art, 1st place
Virginia Rocca Barton
5-6
Mathias A., Art, 1st Place