MONTGOMERY, Ala. - Four talented young artists have captured top honors in the Alabama Association of School Boards' (AASB) "Diamond Legacy" 75th Anniversary Student Art Contest. The statewide competition, which drew more than 150 entries, challenged public school students to illustrate the lasting impact of school board leadership in Alabama. The contest was sponsored by AASB and Fairbanks, LLC.

In the K-5 category, Scarlett Woodroof of Tuscaloosa Magnet Elementary (Tuscaloosa City Schools) claimed first place with her piece titled "Guiding Education." Adriana Watkins from Daphne East Elementary School (Baldwin County Schools) earned second place with her creative work, "Headed in the 'Best' Direction."

In the grades 6-12 category, Breanna Reynolds of Central High School (Phenix City Schools) earned first place with her painting, "A Shining Legacy." Mayra Garcia from Albertville High School (Albertville City Schools) took second place honors with her entry, "Our Educational Leaders Will Light the Way.”

The winning entries were selected by a distinguished panel of judges who evaluated submissions based on theme interpretation, creativity, artistic skill, visual impact, composition, and emotional resonance. First-place winners will receive $1,000 prizes, and second-place winners will receive $500 awards.

"These students are shining examples of the immense talent found throughout Alabama's public schools," said AASB Executive Director Sally Smith. "The overwhelming response from students across the state demonstrates the creative spirit and dedication to excellence in our public schools. Each piece powerfully illustrates the illuminating impact of school board leadership and education in Alabama over the past 75 years."

AASB will honor the winners during the closing session of its Annual Convention at the Renaissance Montgomery Hotel & Spa Saturday, December 7, at 8:30 a.m. Roughly 500 education leaders are expected to attend the event. 

The winning artwork will be displayed at the Convention before finding a permanent home at AASB's office. The pieces also will be posted on AASB's website, AlabamaSchoolBoards.org, and social media platforms.

About the Alabama Association of School Boards  

The Alabama Association of School Boards represents all of the state’s public local school boards. Since 1949, AASB has served education leaders and the interests of local decision making in public education. Today the association serves more than 800 school board members statewide. The association’s mission is to develop excellent school board leaders through quality training, advocacy, and services. Connect with us on Facebook, X or LinkedIn.