HISD students showcase creativity in 37th Annual Art Car Parade

Students from 26 HISD campuses recently participated in the 37th Annual Art Car Parade in Houston, showcasing their creative talents to the community. The event, which had been canceled in 2020 due to the pandemic, saw students collaborating to design and build unique Art Cars that wowed spectators along the parade route.

One of the participating schools, Parker Elementary School, took inspiration from NASA astronaut Shannon Walker for their space-themed Art Car. Art teacher Julie Dickinson shared, “Projects like Art Car have tremendous value in the lives of all people, but especially our young learners. When students participate in these community events, they develop a greater sense of pride in themselves, their schools, and their immediate community.”

The dedication and hard work of the students paid off when Walker agreed to ride in the bed of "The Galactic Walker," the Art Car inspired by her. HISD Secondary Visual Arts Coordinator Chandel Hancock emphasized the importance of events like the Art Car Parade in helping students develop essential skills for future success. "These are traits needed for future success personally and professionally," she said.

At the parade, Ortiz Middle School received the Rockstar Rookie Award, while Carnegie Vanguard High School was recognized with the Hard Luck Award for persevering through challenges on parade day. HISD schools also dominated the Youth category, with Sam Houston Math, Science and Technology Center taking first place, Tanglewood Middle School in second, and Garden Oaks Montessori in third.

HISD Visual Arts Curriculum Designer Rickey Polidore, a seasoned participant in the parade, highlighted the significance of the event in connecting students to their campus, community, and themselves through creativity and collaboration. The Art Car Parade not only provides a platform for students to showcase their artistic talents but also fosters a sense of pride and accomplishment among participants.

For more information about HISD and the Art Car Parade, you can visit the News Blog archive or explore HISD Visual Arts programs on the district’s webpage.