• Diversity, Equity, Inclusion
  • In The Classroom
  • Programs & People

At YES Prep, fostering creativity and providing opportunities for student success go hand in hand. Each year, YES Prep students participate in the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo (HLSR) School Art Contest, where their talent, dedication, and love for Texas culture come to life. From pre-K to 12th grade, our students showcase their artistic skills, participate in a meaningful celebration of Western heritage, and gain access to life-changing opportunities. 

A Unique Opportunity for YES Prep Students

The HLSR School Art Contest has been a platform for students to excel for more than 50 years, and YES Prep students consistently rise to the occasion. This program challenges them to explore their artistic abilities while promoting an understanding of agriculture, Western heritage, and the rich traditions of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. 

Each piece of artwork submitted by YES Prep students reflects Western Art—art that portrays the heritage, lifestyle, and landscapes of the West, both historical and modern. From brainstorming concepts to finalizing their masterpieces, students gain valuable skills in research, conceptualization, and artistic execution under the guidance of YES Prep’s talented art educators. 

Highlighting YES Prep Talent 

YES Prep art teachers play an instrumental role in preparing students for success in the competition. Through their support, students are encouraged to think critically, hone their technical skills, and push the boundaries of their creativity. 

Selected pieces from YES Prep elementary and secondary schools compete at the YES Prep district level. After district-wide judging, finalists are selected from each school level—elementary, middle, and high school—and advance to the official Rodeo Art Contest. HLSR judges then award recognition in categories such as Best in Show, Gold Medal, and Special Merit. Any students who win these awards progress to the final round of the competition, where they could be selected for additional awards and auction, and will have their work displayed in the Hayloft Gallery at NRG Stadium during Rodeo Houston, March 4–23, 2024.

Jessie Crandall, YES Prep’s Secondary Director of Instructional Technology and Electives & Career and Technical Education (CTE), highlights the importance of this opportunity: 

“YES Prep students learn valuable lessons in artistic discipline, originality, and creativity through this program. Their participation not only prepares them for future artistic endeavors but also helps them build the confidence to share their unique perspectives with the world.” 

Transformative Impact for YES Prep Artists 

The HLSR School Art Contest is more than just a competition—it’s a steppingstone to future success. High school students, in particular, often spend months perfecting their entries, knowing the program opens doors to scholarships, workshops, and financial opportunities. Artwork selected for auction allows students to earn a portion of the proceeds, providing a tangible benefit for their hard work. 

Danielle Johnson, a YES Prep Northside Secondary student and this year’s 3D Best in Show winner, is one example of the program’s transformative impact. She attributes her success to the mentorship of her YES Prep art teacher and the school’s commitment to providing enriching opportunities. 

“My teacher encouraged me to take risks and develop my style, which helped me grow as an artist. Participating in the Rodeo Art Contest has been an unforgettable experience,” Danielle shared. 

YES Prep’s Commitment to Creativity 

At YES Prep, we believe in the power of art to connect communities, inspire students, and celebrate cultural heritage. Opportunities like the HLSR School Art Contest align with our mission to prepare students for success in college, careers, and beyond. Art education at YES Prep isn’t just about creating beautiful pieces—it’s about empowering students to express themselves, take pride in their work, and develop skills that will serve them throughout their lives. 

YES Prep’s art teachers and staff go above and beyond to ensure students have access to programs that challenge them and celebrate their creativity. By participating in this program, our students not only honor Texas traditions but also make their mark as young leaders in the arts. 

Visit the Hayloft Gallery 

We are incredibly proud of all our YES Prep student artists who participated in this year’s Rodeo Art Contest. Your talent and dedication reflect the values of our community and inspire us all. 

We invite everyone to celebrate these young artists by visiting the Hayloft Gallery at NRG Stadium during Rodeo Houston, March 4–23, 2025. This is an opportunity to witness the creativity of YES Prep students alongside artists from across the region. 

Congratulations to all our participating students and award winners! Your artwork is a testament to the creativity and potential that define YES Prep. 

-------

YES Prep’s Visual Arts program is designed to inspire creative thinking, build technical skills, and develop students' ability to see and interpret the world around them. Through the guidance of passionate educators, students gain confidence in their artistic expression and cultivate a lifelong appreciation for the arts. To learn more about how our Visual Arts program transforms students’ educational experiences, visit our website here.

  • Art
  • Art Education
  • East End Elementary
  • HLSR 2025
  • Houston Rodeo
  • Houston Rodeo Art Show
  • North Central Elementary
  • Rodeo
  • Southeast
  • Southeast Secondary
  • Southwest
  • Southwest Secondary
  • YES PREP
  • YES Prep East End Elementary
  • YES Prep North Central ES
  • YES Prep Southeast
  • YES Prep Southwest

Sign up to receive YES Prep's systemwide monthly newsletter

The News Update is YES Prep Public Schools systemwide monthly e-newsletter where we share the latest news, teacher and student stories, as well as upcoming events and important dates. 

Subscribe to newsletter