Unionville High School’s Holiday Card Design Winner Announced

The school district recently celebrated the closing of its annual Holiday Card Design Contest, an event open to all K–12 students across the district. This creative tradition encourages students to showcase their artistic talents by designing winter-themed cards that capture the spirit of the season. The students were given complete creative freedom and were encouraged to include aspects from their holiday traditions. Schools across the district promoted the contest throughout November, giving students the chance to express themselves through drawing, painting, and digital art.

One winner from each school level was selected, and for the high school, that student was sophomore Nina Messa. Her artwork features Lenny the Longhorn, the high school’s mascot, relaxing in front of a fire, sipping tea. When asked about her inspiration behind the design, Messa explained that “one of my favorite winter activities is drinking something hot, usually tea, on the couch by the mantelpiece. So, I had Lenny drinking tea in front of the fire. I thought it would be a nice scene since one, it was fun to shade the fire and two, it isn't limited to one holiday.”

The sophomore also explained her process behind creating the design, noting that it wasn’t without obstacles as she “submitted this entry at 11:59 the night it was due” and “was pretty rushed to get it done.” However, it all paid off as she won, though she emphasized that she “did not expect to win” and was thoroughly surprised.

Her artwork, along with the other designs from winners at each level, will be featured on the front of the official district holiday card. Teachers look forward to seeing the three pieces of art from their talented students every year, and these cards will be available at all schools for staff to use before the holiday break, giving the winners a unique opportunity to have their creativity shared districtwide. The contest not only celebrates student talent but also strengthens the sense of community and connection across the school district during the festive season.