North Ridgeville High School senior Alaya Wilson has achieved a remarkable distinction in the 2025 Scholastic Art and Writing Awards, securing an American Vision award for her photograph titled Still. This prestigious accolade is one of only five American Vision awards given in each county, elevating her work to the national competition level.
Alaya’s journey in photography began during her sophomore year at North Ridgeville High School. Since then, she has transformed her passion into a thriving business, specializing in portraiture and even capturing moments at two weddings over the past summer. Her photography teacher, Dalia Erney, expressed immense pride in Alaya’s growth, stating, “The passion Alaya embodies for her photography has really become the avenue for her personal and creative growth on many levels. I have seen her become a shining star, and I couldn’t be more excited for her. I can’t imagine a more deserving student.”
The Scholastic Art and Writing Awards recognize outstanding student artists and writers across the United States. This year, over 1,400 entries were submitted, with nearly 600 selected for exhibition. Judging panels comprised of professionals determine the recipients of Gold Key, Silver Key, and Honorable Mention awards. Gold Key winners, including Alaya, progress to compete at the national level, where more than 1,500 students earn national awards annually.
The upcoming exhibition will showcase the awarded works, with an opening reception scheduled for January 18, 2025, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the LCCC Stocker Center in Elyria. The event will highlight the creativity and talent of students from North Ridgeville High School, which earned a total of four Gold Keys, eight Silver Keys, and thirteen Honorable Mentions this year.
Alaya Wilson’s recognition is part of a broader celebration of student achievement at North Ridgeville. The school’s commitment to fostering creative talent is evident in the numerous awards garnered by its students, reinforcing the importance of artistic expression in education. As Alaya prepares for the national competition, she exemplifies the potential and dedication of young artists making their mark in the world.
