In a year when more than 110,000 students submitted over 335,000 works to the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards, two Aldine ISD student artists earned National Gold Awards for photography. Blanson CTE High School students Alexandra de León and Stephanie Leiva were recognized for their submissions.

The Scholastic Art & Writing Awards are among the nation’s most prestigious for teen artists and writers. De León’s moving work, Acts of Faith and Love, and Leiva’s compelling Blinded Truth, triumphed among tens of thousands of submissions. Their artistry will soon be celebrated in the online galleries at artandwriting.org and highlighted in Yearbook 2026, a prestigious companion to the Awards’ print anthologies.

“These extraordinary wins place Aldine ISD students in the top tier of national talent,” said Kaileigh Newman, director of visual arts for Aldine ISD. “This outstanding achievement truly reflects the technical mastery and emergence of unique personal voices among our students. We are incredibly proud of Alexandra and Stephanie, who are shining examples of the excellence we cultivate each day in our classrooms.”

The district’s efforts to expand student opportunity align with the Accelerate five-year strategic plan, which prioritizes opportunities and enriching experiences that prepare students for success beyond high school.

Superintendent Dr. LaTonya M. Goffney underscored the district’s commitment to expanding opportunities.

“We are dedicated to ensuring every student has the choices and opportunities to pursue their passions at the highest level.”

The national recognition for Alexandra and Stephanie reinforces Aldine ISD’s mission to accelerate futures through a broad spectrum of arts and academic programs.

Since 1923, the Scholastic Awards have celebrated teen artists and writers from across the country. Alumni include notable figures such as Tschabalala Self, Stephen King, Kay WalkingStick, Charles White, Joyce Carol Oates, Amanda Gorman, and Andy Warhol, all of whom earned Scholastic recognition as teens. This year’s national winners join that legacy and will be celebrated in district communications and events.

A single image and a single voice can open doors. Alexandra and Stephanie’s triumphant Gold Medals are more than medals — they are gateways to higher education, boundless professional opportunities, and a legacy of lifelong creative impact. Their success inspires their peers and raises the bar for what’s possible within our district.

This story continues Aldine ISD’s longstanding coverage of Scholastic Arts & Writing Awards at both the regional and national levels. For additional context and related features, see the district’s past coverage, including profiles of other Scholastic winners.

Follow the district’s storytelling on social media with #AldineStory.