Summit County News, December 9, 2022--South Summit School District recently held its eight annual holiday card art contest. South Summit High School junior, Angel Rodriguez, created the winning card in his advanced painting class taught by Sue Shuppy.
Human Resources Director, Lucinda Josie, started the holiday card art contest when she first arrived at South Summit School District. She wanted a way to showcase students’ skills to the public. The inaugural contest was open to elementary students and has rotated through each of the district’s five schools through the years.
This year it was South Summit High School’s turn for the contest and Shuppy opened it up to her art students. Angel painted an image of Santa Claus using oils, which is his favorite medium. He was shocked to learn that he won the contest, which is voted on by a committee. Josie coordinated with Principal Chris Jenson, Shuppy, and Rodriguez’ mom, Lucia Patino, to surprise him with the news in painting class and present him with a $100 gift card.
The original oil painting was converted into a digital image and is featured on the official South Summit School District holiday card. It has been given to every district employee, all Utah school districts, local municipalities, and the Governor’s office. In addition, Rodriguez sold the original to a district employee. Other employees have already approached asking to purchase digital copies for themselves.
“In a time when the world seems to be focusing on and filled with so much negative and divisiveness, it's refreshing to see a focus on things that are positive. Our South Summit students are awesome. I love that when we open up this opportunity we get to see and celebrate their skills and talents. It also serves as proof that amazing things are happening here in the South Summit School District,” said Superintendent Greg Maughan.
Founded in 1913, South Summit School District sits at the Gateway to the Uintas in Kamas valley. We oversee nearly 1,700 students in four schools. Our mission is to support, empower, and inspire individuals to promote and achieve academic and character excellence.