NAHS (National Art Honors Society) is CT’s largest art program and is dedicated towards giving talented artists more recognition and opportunities, but how does NAHS work behind the scenes and how does it affect the district’s views in the art programs.

  Julia Swenson, one of the art teachers here, talked about her experience with NAHS and her experience with the art program in general. ”I have sponsored NAHS for two and a half years. I have taught in Cherry Creek Schools for 14 years. I taught theatre at SVMS and EHS.  I think the district is very supportive of the art community. I have received numerous grants from the Cherry Creek Schools Foundation and always felt supported when taking on new programs, projects, and initiatives.” said Swenson.

  CT has a long history with the art programs and in recent history is beginning to give them more support with the scholastic competitions and all the talented artists at our school making art pieces for almost every event like make a wish and veterans day. 

  NAHS is not an easy program to get into however, Similar to most sport activities students are required to have a minimum gpa level and service hours. “Students are not “chosen” to be in the club, they attend a meeting to learn about the club,  sign a contract, and pay a fee. Students must have a 3.0 weighted GPA and attend a meeting at least once a month to remain a member. NAHS also require 15 service hours per year.  Seniors who want a NAHS honor cord must have a 3.5 GPA in art classes, a 3.0 weighted GPA overall, and 30 total service hours.” 

  While NAHS is a large and is continuing to grow for now we can only imagine what NAHS may become with time and work from the art from CT’s talented art community Swenson would love to see NAHS and the visual arts department at CTHS grow; I think both are growing and we should continue on that path.

  I would love to see more national recognition for our programs as we continue to thrive and expand. I would also like to see us grow new connections between the larger art community of Colorado, neighboring art departments in the district, and volunteering opportunities in cooperation with other CTHS clubs/departments.