Small but Mighty: Memorial Early College High School Art Students Make Their Mark in Texas Art Scene
At Memorial Early College High School (MECHS) in Comal ISD, creativity is quietly flourishing inside classrooms where paintbrushes, sketchbooks and sculpting tools are helping students find their voice. Though the school’s art program is modest in size, its impact is increasingly visible across the Texas student art scene, with MECHS artists earning awards and recognition in local, regional and statewide competitions.
For students pursuing creative passions while balancing rigorous academics, the program has become more than an elective—it’s a space where artistic talent, mentorship and hands-on learning converge to shape future opportunities.
Guided by art teachers Ashley Buehler and Lynn Odom, the program continues to build momentum each year, offering students the chance to explore their creativity while developing skills that extend far beyond the classroom.
A Unique Learning Environment at Memorial Early College High School
Opened in 2009, Memorial Early College High School is one of only two high schools in the United States to hold the dual designations of both an Early College High School and a New Technology High School. The school’s project-based learning model encourages students to apply classroom knowledge in real-world ways, making it an ideal environment for creative disciplines like visual arts.
Rather than focusing solely on traditional instruction, MECHS integrates collaborative projects, problem-solving and hands-on exploration into its academic approach.
For art students, that philosophy translates into lessons that build skills gradually while encouraging individual expression.
Art teacher Ashley Buehler explained the structure behind the program’s teaching style.
“We don't use a ‘one size fits all’ approach. We break the teaching into levels, making sure the lessons follow a logical path, starting with simple steps and moving toward harder skills as the students move into more advanced art classes.”
This layered approach helps students develop both technical ability and confidence as they advance through the program.
Teacher Ashley Buehler Brings Professional Art Experience to the Classroom
Before joining Comal ISD, Buehler built her own creative career as the founder of Traveling ART, a studio she operated in nearby Gruene. Through the studio, she hosted art lessons, workshops and creative events while also illustrating two children’s books.
Her professional background helps bring a real-world perspective into the classroom, offering students insight into both the artistic process and the discipline required to pursue creative careers.
Buehler’s path to MECHS included teaching at Mountain Valley Middle School and helping launch the art program during the inaugural year at Davenport High School. She has now been teaching at Memorial Early College High School for the past five years.
“I have a passion for curriculum writing and believe in the project-based learning model to help inspire students to want to learn and improve their skills,” said Buehler.
Her philosophy emphasizes not only creativity but also perseverance and growth.
“I believe in modeling a strong work ethic for students and challenging my art students to compete and showcase their work.”
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MECHS Art Students Earn Awards Across Texas
The dedication of both teachers and students is reflected in the growing list of art competition awards and recognitionsearned by MECHS artists during the current school year.
At the New Braunfels Art League’s “Home Brewed Fantasy” Show, which remains on display through March 22, several Memorial Early College High School students earned top honors:
- Kyndal Leasman — 2nd Place for Painting, Mixed Media, Digital, and Photography
- Stone Stanford — 1st Place for Drawing
- Luna Vasquez — 3rd Place for Drawing
Students also achieved significant success in the Region 13S Visual Arts Scholastic Event (VASE), one of Texas’ most respected competitions for high school artists.
Out of 40 MECHS entries, 27 artworks received the top score of 4 and earned medals, while six students advanced to the State VASE competition, including:
- Jaden Adams
- Lucy Peters
- Johana Aguirre-Esquer
- Ashton Land
- Kei Ikehata
- Laura Mendoza Moto
For a smaller program, the results reflect a strong culture of encouragement and creative excellence.
Building Confidence Through Creativity
Inside the MECHS art classroom, students explore a wide range of mediums—from painting and drawing to sculpture and mixed media projects. These projects allow them to experiment with technique while expressing ideas drawn from their own experiences and perspectives.
Whether working on a detailed painting, refining a charcoal drawing or constructing a sculptural model of a living space, students are learning how creativity connects to design, storytelling and critical thinking.
In a school known for its academic rigor and college-focused pathway, the art program provides a valuable balance—offering students the chance to slow down, observe and create.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Artists
For Comal ISD students interested in visual arts, programs like the one at Memorial Early College High Schooldemonstrate how mentorship and opportunity can nurture young talent.
Teachers like Ashley Buehler and Lynn Odom continue to guide students not only toward competition success but also toward personal growth and creative confidence.
With each exhibition and award, MECHS artists are reinforcing the idea that even a small program can leave a meaningful mark on the broader Texas high school art community.
And as more students discover the power of artistic expression within MECHS’ project-based environment, the program’s influence is likely to keep expanding.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.