WGHS’s NAHS: Changing the Community, One Brush at a Time

Of the many changes brought to WGHS by Mrs. Boyett, few are as impactful and prominent as her revival of Walnut Grove’s chapter of the National Art Honor Society, a student-led organization with a focus on community service through the arts.
by Emery Brown

So what is the mission of NAHS? “. . . to connect with the community and serve it,” Mrs. Boyett, who oversees the operations of the chapter, claims. “It raises the profile of the arts and puts a spotlight on our school and the great things we do.”

Prior to Mrs. Boyett, WGHS had a chapter of NAHS; however, it remained inactive until this year. So why bring it back? “It offers art-related service hours that students can put towards a cord at graduation. It also allows for students to become part of something fun beyond the pressures of their academic load. It gives students the opportunity to take on leadership roles and, in many ways, prepares them for life after high school,” she says.

Brylee Sanders, a senior who serves as the chapter’s vice president, believes that “NAHS has impacted our local community in a very positive manner!” So far, the NAHS has taken part in two completed projects. The first was a pumpkin auction fundraiser. Taking place in early October, members painted themed pumpkins, real and fake, for teachers to bid on. The second was a Coraline-themed Trunk or Treat, which took place at the Orchard Church this past Sunday, featuring students playing games with and handing out candy to the children, which Brylee says allowed NAHS to “really [connect] with the locals.”

As a leading member of NAHS, Brylee is put under much stress; however, she considers it rewarding. “It feels good to participate in something bigger than myself, but it definitely comes with deadlines and a rush to finish our projects in time.”
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To those interested in joining, she offers these words: “If you have any interest in art or just want to join something with your friends and participate in the community, NAHS is for you. Art is for everyone and NAHS is a good way for you to express yourself and meet with people [with] the same passion/curiosity. Don’t be afraid to join, we’re more than happy for new people.”
With numerous other projects on the way, NAHS is hard at work. With that, for the future, Mrs. Boyett hopes “to see the NAHS continue to flourish and grow and become a crucial part of WGHS.”