👥 Who: Students Hannah Leitheiser, Olivia McClain, Ahymn Kim, Emma Hilleary; teachers Ms. Eden Preston, Ms. Lindsey Gafford, Ms. Gina Watson; Superintendent Marcus Chambers
🎨 What: 2025–2026 Art in the Capitol Competition winners
📅 When: 2025–2026 school year; artwork displayed during the 2026 Florida Legislative Session
📍 Where: Okaloosa County schools; Florida Capitol in Tallahassee
🏆 Why: To recognize and showcase the artistic talent of middle school students across Florida
NICEVILLE, FL — The Okaloosa County School District (OCSD) is proud to recognize the achievements of its middle school students in the 2025–2026 Art in the Capitol Competition, a statewide visual arts contest for students in grades 6–8. The competition provides young artists with an opportunity to showcase their creativity and have their work displayed at the Florida Capitol in Tallahassee during the legislative session.
This year, Hannah Leitheiser of Liza Jackson Preparatory School was named Best in Show. Her artwork will represent Okaloosa County at the Florida Capitol in the 2026 Legislative Session. Leitheiser is a student of Ms. Eden Preston, who has guided her through the creative process.
Other district winners include:
1st Place: Olivia McClain, Lewis School, teacher Ms. Lindsey Gafford
2nd Place: Ahymn Kim, Ruckel Middle School, teacher Ms. Gina Watson
3rd Place: Emma Hilleary, Ruckel Middle School, teacher Ms. Gina Watson
Superintendent Marcus Chambers praised the students and their teachers for their dedication and creativity. “Our middle school students continue to amaze us with their incredible talent and imagination,” Chambers said. “We’re so proud of Hannah and all our student artists who represented Okaloosa County in this year’s Art in the Capitol Competition. Their work reflects not only their skill but also the support and inspiration they receive from our outstanding art teachers.”
The Art in the Capitol Competition was established by the Florida Legislature to celebrate the artistic achievements of middle school students across the state. Each district’s winning pieces are displayed at the Florida Capitol during the legislative session, providing lawmakers, staff, and visitors an opportunity to appreciate the talent of young Floridians.
OCSD emphasizes the importance of arts education in fostering creativity, critical thinking, and self-expression. By participating in competitions like Art in the Capitol, students gain valuable experience in presenting their work publicly and connecting with the broader community. Teachers also play a critical role, offering mentorship, instruction, and guidance to help students refine their skills and develop confidence in their abilities.
“The dedication of our art teachers is evident in the quality of work our students produce,” Superintendent Chambers added. “Events like this highlight not only individual talent but the collective strength of our schools and community in supporting the arts.”
The district congratulates all participants and their teachers for their commitment to artistic excellence and for representing Okaloosa County with pride at the state level. The winners’ artwork will remain on display at the Florida Capitol throughout the 2026 Legislative Session, giving residents and lawmakers the chance to view the creative accomplishments of the county’s youth.
Pro Communi Bono
St. Francis De Sales, Ora Pro Nobis!
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