In the fine arts, talented students at Mount Vernon High School have many opportunities to spread their wings. 

In band and orchestra, students can be nominated for participation in various regional honor bands, and they can audition for jazz band and drum major positions. 

In choir, students can be nominated for honor events and other prestigious positions.

From choir director Thad Wilkins:

• "OPUS Honor Choir is open to any choir students grades 6 - 9 who are advanced and looking for an extra challenge and experience.

• 6 - 8 Grade Students have an opportunity to attend additional honor choirs in January, February, and March through regional ICDA

• All High School Vocal Students have the opportunity to audition for the Iowa All-State Chorus if they so choose.  I usually identify students who should consider it.

• 2 Jazz Choirs meet outside the school day - these are auditioned groups but open to anyone in choir.

• State Solo/Ensemble Festival allows any student of any ability to prepare a solo or be part of a small group tosing for a judge and earn a rating

• Each year I offer a couple of different honor Choir opportunities for advanced students in January."

In Speech and Theater, students have opportunities to showcase their talents in several ways.

From Director Tom Stephens:

"- Every show we produce has at least one AD/SM (assistant director/stage manager), which serves as a leadership opportunity for interested students.

- Juniors may apply to direct a show during their senior year.  This is more autonomous and has higher responsibility than being an AD/SM.

- Students may attend the Iowa Thespian Festival (2 days in November) and the International Thespian Festival (6 days in June) as a delegate. 

- We regularly (every 2-3 years, typically) apply to take a production to the Iowa Thespian Festival, either on the mainstage (full length show) or a studio show (45 minute cutting). 

- Sophomores and juniors can run to be a State Thespian Officer (STO).  That group plans state-wide events throughout the year and serves as advocates for the arts in Iowa. 

- Thespy's are adjudicated individual events at the Iowa Thespian Festival in 21 different categories.  Students who receive a superior rating are eligible to perform at the International Thespian Festival."