The Los Angeles County Office of Education (LACOE) and Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) celebrated exceptional young talent through a virtual awards ceremony for the 2024-25 Scholastic Art & Writing Awards. The online event honored outstanding students whose work stood out among nearly 7,000 submissions from 7th-12th graders across L.A. County. Award recipients included 257 Gold Key art winners and 144 Gold Key writing winners, whose exceptional pieces are now featured in a curated virtual exhibition—marking the first public showcase of these works. A complete listing of all Gold Key, Silver Key and Honorable Mention recipients can be found on the LACOE website.

The virtual awards ceremony featured a welcome message from the Los Angeles County Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Debra Duardo as well as a congratulatory message from the LAUSD Superintendent, Alberto M. Carvalho.

“I am proud of the remarkable achievements of our students and the vibrant artistic community we are fostering in our school communities. The arts hold a special place in our lives, enriching our experiences and fostering a deeper understanding of ourselves and others. Congratulations to all the award recipients,” said Dr. Debra Duardo, the Los Angeles County Superintendent of Schools. “Your hard work and passion are shining examples of the power of creativity. Keep pushing boundaries, keep expressing yourselves and continue to make the world a more beautiful place through your art.”

A total of 57 submissions received a distinctive recognition of a national medal and will go on to participate in the national competition of the 2024-2025 Scholastic Art & Writing Awards. Of those 57, most notably, three students were awarded the National Visions, National Voices and Best in Grade awards. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the winners and participants of this year's competition. Your contributions have enriched our education community and demonstrated the power of art to bring people together, even in a virtual setting.

“Bravo to each student who participated in this year’s Scholastic Art & Writing contest. To our winners and many participants, your talent and perseverance are remarkable. Many forms of art, including writing, have the power to challenge perspectives, ignite change and inspire a more compassionate and connected world. Keep your creativity alive and bountiful. Humankind needs it now more than ever,” said Alberto M. Carvalho, LAUSD Superintendent.

For more information about the virtual exhibition, to view the stunning artwork and read the award-winning pieces, please visit the LACOE website.