HES Fifth Grader Designs School Shirt

Joan Molina never he thought he’s see his artwork published. When Highland Principal Rich Hills and Art Teacher Grayson Hampton told him that his design would be the new Highland Spirit shirt, he was blown away.

“I was very surprised,” said Joan.

Joan was the winner of Highland Elementary Parent Teacher Association’s Spirit Shirt competition. He drew his inspiration from Highland Elementary’s reference to their students as future leaders. Lightning bolts emanate from the the Highland Mustang mascot to spread leadership and kindness.

“I was inspired by the lightning bold - how it spreads out. That inspired me to include the words of be a leader. Being a leader means to show kindness, and spread kindness,” said Joan.

The contest was for Highland fifth graders and had to focus on a “Highland Mustang theme” explained art teacher Grayson Hampton. Fifth grade teachers looked at all of the entries from fifth graders by class - no names were visible.  One entry was selected from each class and the Highland students voted on the winner.

“I think his theme of ‘Be a Leader’ set his piece apart from the others, and of course who doesn’t like lightning bolts,” explained Grayson.

Alpine Bank sponsored the production of the shirts and every student and staff member received one that they wore for an all school photo.

“That was pretty cool,” added Joan.