Blackwell Students Earn State Recognition for Excellence in the Arts

Two Blackwell High School students are being recognized at the state level for their outstanding achievements in the performing arts, bringing pride to their school and community.

Breannah McCurry has been selected as one of 145 students statewide to receive the prestigious Arts Excellence Award as part of the 36th annual Oklahoma Education Awards for Arts Excellence. The honor recognizes high school juniors and seniors who demonstrate exceptional talent in areas such as dance, theatre, instrumental and vocal music, piano and visual arts.

The awards ceremony was held at 7 p.m. April 21 at the Guthrie Scottish Rite Center in Guthrie. The event is hosted by the Oklahoma Alliance for Arts Education in partnership with the Oklahoma State Department of Education, the Oklahoma Arts Council and the Masonic Fraternity of Oklahoma.

Each year, the program celebrates not only student achievement but also the strength of arts education programs across the state.

“This event celebrates the remarkable achievements of students, educators and school leaders who are deeply committed to the arts,” said Dr. Evelyn Kwanza, chair of the Oklahoma Alliance for Arts Education. “Their resilience, creativity and vision help build vibrant and culturally rich communities across Oklahoma.”

In addition to honoring students, the ceremony also recognized educators and administrators for their leadership and dedication to advancing arts education.

Also earning recognition is Blackwell High School sophomore Jaxon Younger, who received a Superior rating (I), the highest possible distinction, at the Oklahoma Secondary School Activities Association State Solo & Ensemble Vocal Competition held April 23.

Younger performed “Ten Minutes Ago” from the Rodgers & Hammerstein musical Cinderella. The OSSAA State Solo & Ensemble Contest features top student musicians from across Oklahoma who advance through district-level competition, making a Superior rating at the state level a significant accomplishment.

Blackwell Public Schools and the Blackwell High School Vocal Music Department commended Younger for his dedication, preparation and performance.

For Blackwell, the achievements of both McCurry and Younger highlight the strength of the district’s arts programs and the talent of its students, underscoring the important role of arts education in the community.