Starkville Honors Artistic Excellence at Starkville High School
In the heart of Starkville, a vibrant celebration unfolded as the Starkville Rotary Club recognized outstanding talent in the local community. The club honored the amazing art teacher, Andrew Lark, as the Teacher of the Month. As part of this recognition, Lark also took the opportunity to spotlight two exceptional students from Starkville High School, Sachiko Clay and Willie McGee, as Rotary Students of the Month.
A Hub of Creativity
Nestled snugly between the main Starkville High building and the east parking lot is the famed White House Studio. This lively spot has established itself as a hub of creativity, with Andrew Lark at the helm, guiding students along various artistic paths—from traditional drawing and sculpture to modern photography and fashion design. He is an award-winning instructor revered far and wide, having received accolades like the Starkville School District Teacher of the Year and is among the esteemed list of Mississippi’s finest educators, including the Mississippi Teacher of the Year.
Meet the Stellar Students
When Lark chose to highlight Sachiko Clay and Willie McGee as students worthy of recognition, he emphasized their impressive talents and commitment to the visual arts. These two juniors not only excel at Starkville High but have shone on larger stages, achieving both state and national honors.
Sachiko’s talent was internationally recognized last December when she was selected as one of only eleven finalists worldwide in the 2023 International Travelers Photography competition. Her stunning entries showcased her artistic eye during her travels to her family’s native Japan. Additionally, she clinched First Place in the Mississippi Congressional Art Competition and snagged two Silver Medals in the Mississippi Scholastic Art Competition. The recent National BETA Art Competition held in Savannah, GA awarded her Overall Best of Show for her moving piece titled “Dear Grandpa.” “Thanks to Mr. Lark, I am learning the professional side of both photography and art,” Sachiko expressed. “Without this program, I would have never been able to do a fraction of what I am doing today.”
Willie has also gained invaluable skills under Lark’s guidance. This summer, he received Second Place at the National BETA Art Competition for his color photograph named “God, Yes.” His impressive accolades also include First Place at the Mississippi BETA Competition and multiple medals in the Mississippi Scholastic Art Competition.
Tradition of Excellence Continues
The fine arts program at Starkville High School has blossomed under Lark’s direction, creating a robust tradition of excellence. Over the years, students have amassed an incredible number of awards, including twelve Overall Best of Show honors at the National Congressional Art competition, showcasing their work in the prestigious U.S. Capitol for over a dozen years. In addition, during Lark’s time at Starkville High, students have accumulated over 550 state Scholastic Art Awards and 59 National Scholastic Art Awards, with numerous accolades in various competitions.
Community Spirit
The passion and commitment displayed by the students and their teacher encapsulate the very spirit of Starkville. The Starkville Oktibbeha Consolidated School District remains dedicated to fostering artistic talent and nurturing each student’s passion, purpose, and potential. Celebrating achievements like those of Sachiko and Willie not only uplifts the individuals but the entire community, infusing it with inspiration and pride.
