Weslaco East has three components in the curriculum that prepares students for college and the 21st century workforce; a rigorous curriculum, community service, and competition.
Students may follow a chosen pathway through enrolling in Art Classes I, II, III, and IV as well as AP STUDIO ART.
WEHS ART STUDENTS HONORED AT 2026 COMMUNITY BOOK FESTIVAL
Weslaco East High School was recently honored with a community award, recognizing the vital role its arts programs play in the success of the annual book festival.
The award was presented to Principal Dr. Gamboa, Librarian Mr. Cavazos, and the talented students of the National Art Honor Society & Portfolio Star Art Club.
Highlights of the Recognition
Artistic Contribution: The award highlights how much the arts have enriched the local book festival through student work and dedicated effort.
Collaborative Leadership: It celebrates the synergy between school administration, the library, and student organizations.
Community Impact: The honor underscores WEHS’s commitment to fostering culture and creativity within the city.
Weslaco East High School Art Students Participate In Global Community Service : The Memory Project 2026
At Weslaco East High School, we believe that our talents are meant to be shared and our ideas have the power to cross oceans. Our incredible students are proving that you’re never too young to be a global changemaker!
Through a dedicated community service project, our Wildcats have been channeling their creativity into art and joy for children in Siem Reap, Cambodia. By reaching out to peers halfway across the globe, these students are sending a powerful message: you are seen, you are valued, and you are part of our global family.
Why Service Matters
Creating a Ripple Effect: A single act of kindness in a classroom in Weslaco can create a day of pure happiness for an underprivileged child in Cambodia.
Purpose-Driven Learning: Our students aren't just completing a project; they are discovering how their unique skills can solve problems and uplift spirits worldwide.
Building a Legacy: While these Wildcats are making an impact abroad, they are also growing into empathetic leaders. This commitment to service is a standout addition to any college or scholarship application!
DOD: 15 Community Hours
Literature Meets Art at Weslaco East! 2026 WEHS & STC Collaboration
We are thrilled to announce an exciting cultural partnership between Weslaco East High School, South Texas College (STC), the Weslaco Museum, and Will N Weslaco.
Recently, Dr. Smith, STC Professor and Founder/Director of Will N Weslaco, visited Mr. Miller’s classroom. Building on the students' recent studies of Italian Commedia dell'arte, Dr. Smith lectured on Shakespeare’s As You Like It, exploring medieval themes and character concepts.
The Project: Students are now taking this knowledge from the page to the studio! They will be bridging Commedia concepts with Shakespearean themes to create over 150 original 3-dimensional masks. This deep dive into literature, art, and creative sculpting is being coordinated under the direction of Cultural Studies and Community Events by Mr. & Mrs. Miller.
The Outcome: A representative selection of these masks will be featured in a major exhibit at the Weslaco Museum. Stay tuned to see our Wildcats' creativity on display!
Pictured: Dr. Smith lecturing on character design and the group gathering by the "E" Sculpture.
#WeslacoEast #WillNWeslaco #ArtsInEducation #Shakespeare #MaskMaking #STC #CommunityPartnership #StudentArt
WEHS Art Students Bring Japanese Tradition to Campus with “Koinobori” Installation
Collaborative exhibit with Edo-Tokyo Open-Air Architectural Museum symbolizes student dreams for the new year.
Weslaco, Texas — The library entrance at Weslaco East High School (WEHS) has been transformed into a vibrant display of color and culture. Art students at WEHS have unveiled a collective paper craft installation of Koinobori (carp streamers), created in collaboration with resources provided by the Edo-Tokyo Open-Air Architectural Museum.
The exhibit, currently on display in the library commons area, features dozens of hand-crafted paper carp. In Japanese tradition, Koinobori are flown to celebrate Kodomo no hi (Children’s Day). The carp, known for its strength and ability to swim upstream, symbolizes the hope that children will grow up healthy and resilient.
“This work represents more than just a classroom project,” said art teachers, Mr. and Mrs. Miller. “Each streamer symbolizes the individual wishes of our students and our collective support for their dreams in the upcoming year.”
The project is the first in a series of community-based art concepts inspired by the Millers' recent educational trip to Japan. During their travels, the Millers studied the collaborative techniques of the Amagasaki High School Art Club, a group renowned in Japan for their large-scale, community-oriented art projects. By integrating the Amagasaki model with resources from the Edo-Tokyo Open-Air Architectural Museum, the Millers are teaching their students how art can bridge cultures and foster a sense of belonging within the school.
Exhibit Details:
Location: WEHS Library Entrance (Commons Area)
Duration: January -May 2026
Theme: Strength, Health, and Aspirations for the Future
The WEHS Art Department invites students, faculty, and the community to visit the installation and experience the spirit of Koinobori. As the streamers "flutter" in the commons, they serve as a visual reminder of the bright futures ahead for the student body.
About WEHS Art Department: The Weslaco East High School Art Department is dedicated to providing students with diverse cultural perspectives and hands-on technical experience. Led by Mr. and Mrs. Miller, the program emphasizes the power of art to build community and celebrate global traditions.
The holiday spirit was in full swing last night at Santa’s Ornament Workshop, where creativity and Christmas magic came together for a wonderful cause.
Our Art I - IV students proudly showcased their original works of art, filling the atmosphere with festive cheer. It was a unique evening where guests were able to interact directly with the student artists, gaining a special "behind-the-scenes" look at how these young creators brought their holiday visions to life.
A Heart for the Community: Every piece of art displayed was created specifically for local elderly centers as part of a dedicated community outreach project.
Artist Interaction: Guests enjoyed personal insights from the students regarding their techniques and inspirations.
Festive Atmosphere: The Commons Area was transformed into a vibrant workshop celebrating student talent and the season of giving.
Thank you to everyone in the community who attended and supported our talented student artists. These ornaments will soon be heading to their new homes at local elderly centers to spread even more joy!
DOD Community Service: 15 Hours
Weslaco East High School, December 5, 2025 — Weslaco East High School (WEHS) students received an inspiring look into the collegiate art world today as alumna Angela Martinez, a current Art Undergraduate at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV), returned to her alma mater for a special presentation.
The event, held in the Staff Development Room during the 5B period, focused on the prestigious UTRGV program that allowed Martinez to study art in Europe. Martinez captivated the audience by sharing detailed insights and stunning visuals from her time abroad, offering a firsthand account of the international opportunities available to aspiring artists.
ARTSGIVING 2025: National Art Honor Society Members Connect and Celebrate
WESLACO, TX – The National Art Honor Society (NAHS) successfully hosted its "ArtsGiving" social event on Tuesday, November 18th, providing members with a dedicated time to gather, relax, and foster artistic camaraderie immediately following the school day.
The event, which was exclusive to NAHS members, took place in the familiar setting of Studio 402, the society's usual creative hub.
Wurzelbier-Schwimmer & Herbst-Auftakt! School Community Event
WESLACO, TX – The National Art Honor Society (NAHS) successfully hosted its "Wurzelbier-Schwimmer & Herbst-Auftakt" (Root Beer Float Swimmer & Autumn Kick-off) social, marking a sweet start to the season just before the excitement of the annual East Fall Festival. This community event was designed to bring current members together and warmly welcome prospective new artists.
WESLACO EAST ARTISTS AT IMAS
RGV COMMUNITY ART EXHIBIT- FALL 2025
MCALLEN, TX – The International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS) in McAllen once again served as a vibrant hub for culture and education during its annual Día de los Muertos festival in October and November 2026. Among the dozens of traditional and imaginative ofrendas (altars) displayed, one exhibit drew significant attention for its cross-cultural focus: a magnificent community altar dedicated to the life and enduring legacy of Renaissance polymath, Leonardo da Vinci.
DOD Community Service: 15 Hours
WESLACO, TX – This past October marked a significant milestone for the burgeoning talents at Weslaco East High School (WEHS), as student artists presented their work in their first professional exhibit of the academic year. The prestigious showing was held at the South Texas College (STC) Pecan Campus Library, providing a vital opportunity for young artists to connect with the wider regional arts community.
DOD COMMUNITY SERVICE: 15 HOURS
THANK YOU
CLASS OF 2025
The Visual Arts Department extends its heartfelt thanks to our senior artists! Your contributions made these years truly memorable and fun. We're incredibly proud of each of you and have no doubt you'll continue to impress us. Keep the arts close to your heart and help make this world a more beautiful place!
Art Honors Celebration 2025
On May 19, the Portfolio Star Art Club and National Art Honor Society (NAHS) gathered at Olive Garden in Weslaco for their Art Honors Celebration Dinner. This informal event, held from 6:00-8:00 PM, brought together members and sponsors to honor their achievements. NAHS seniors were presented with their well-deserved tassels and cords, and every member received an award acknowledging their community service for the 2024-2025 school year. We're incredibly grateful to our dedicated members, their supportive families, and Principal Dr. Gamboa!
REEL ART SPRING ART SHOW A SUCCESS!
The WEHS National Art Honor Society threw open the silver screen and unleashed "Reel Art," a genre-bending, blockbuster tribute art show that electrified senses! Guests dove headfirst into swirling realms of Romance, Fantasy, spine-tingling Horror, eye-opening Documentaries, and side-splitting Comedies! On the evening of March 26th, from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM, attendees witnessed the unveiling of artwork that captured the very essence of favorite genres. It wasn't just an art show; it was a portal to countless worlds! That epic event doubled as the grand finale for the "Blockbuster" fundraiser! Art collectors claimed their treasured copies and relived the magic! The "Reel Artists" worked tirelessly to bring a night to remember, and they sold their masterpieces. Many had the chance to own a piece of that cinematic spectacle. Guests joined and made it a truly BLOCKBUSTER night!
VASE 2025: ANOTHER GOLD YEAR!
Weslaco East High School art students demonstrated their exceptional talent at the 2025 Visual Arts Scholastic Event (VASE) Regional Competition this past Saturday. Competing against students from across the region, our artists earned numerous Regional Excellence Ratings, the highest achievable honor at this level. These outstanding results are a testament to the hard work and dedication of the students, their coaches, and the entire Weslaco East High School art program. We are incredibly proud of their achievements!
WEHS National Art Honor Society kickstarts "Hollywood STYLE"
The National Art Honor Society have started the year at the Home coming football game. Our society members met with Donna ISD reps for a friendship basket exchange before the start of the game.
Our artists will be putting their distinct style in every competition and exhibit for the 2024/2025 school year !
Pictured from left to right are:
Ayleen Zamora, Kathryn Garza, Elissa Marroquin, Mariana Gonzalez, Melanie Medina, Valeria Galindo, Brooke Sanchez, & Karen Valdez
2024 WISD Dia De Los Muertos Art Exhibit
Weslaco East High School art students are joining K-12 students throughout the district in a cultural exhibit at the Weslaco Museum for the month of November.
Please enjoy view the works from WEHS NAHS members and students in Art 1-4 art classes!
WEHS Visual Artists Participate in Regional Dia De Los Muertos Community Art Exhibit at International Museum of Art & Science in McAllen, Texas
WEHS artists created an altar for the late Professor Carlos G. Gomez, UT Brownsville painting/drawing instructor, visual arts chair, & community advocate.
The work reflects central themes of Hispanic pride; for which Gomez used the motifs of chili peppers & indigenous multi-colored tapestries in his own works.
Community Service: 15 Hours
NAHS and Floral Department Kicking Off The 2024 Fall Season with "Pumpkin Patch"; A Seasonal Art & Floral Show
WEHS artists and craftspeople will be working on a community art and floral exhibit for the month of October.
The works will feature a fall themed offering of ecletic styles and mediums displayed at the Staff Development Room located in the general commons area.
Staff and student body may view the works during their lunch time and a second evening show is scheduled for families from 5-7 PM.
Community Service : 15 Hours
COMMUNITY SERVICE: The W.E.H.S art department will be partnering with The Memory Project, a non profit organization that aims to create a kinder world through art. Art students, Brooke Sanchez, Valeria Galindo, Ashlin Guevara, and Abril Moreno will be creating portraits of children who face challenges such as abuse, neglect, loss of parents, violence, war, and extreme poverty.
The portraits will be worked on during the first semester and then delivered to the children in India during the month of January 2025. All students involved are officers of the National Art Honor Society and have excelled in the visual arts in competition as well as community service.
Community Service: 15 Hours
GOLD SEAL MEDALIST RECOGNIZED BY WISD SCHOOL BOARD
Congratulations to Valeria Galindo, WEHS artist, for her certificate of special recognition by the WISD School Board!
From a staggering 33,127 VASE regional entries , only 2,342 made it to the state level this year. Weslaco East had TWO state winners with Ms. Galindo securing the coveted Gold Seal medal out of the 150 statewide winners.
Congratulations to all our students in the VASE regional and state level-Their dedication, creativity, and skill are truly awe-inspiring!
WEHS ARTIST SELECTED AS SEMI-FINALIST IN 2024 "I AM TEXAS" CONTEST
Madelyn Gonzalez, an art student at Weslaco East High School, has been selected as a semi-finalist in a statewide contest sponsored by the Bryan Museum in Galveston, Texas!
Gonzalez entered a work of art that depicted a vaquero shining a lantern into the darkness of the woods with his horse alert to the sounds of the night. " Madelyn added, " My interpretation of a cowboy is someone who had to go through a grueling environment and conditions to survive...".
This is not Madelyn's first "rodeo" at excelling in art; she was invited to showcase her work at STC in April in a regional exhibit. She is also one of the top 20 competitors in Mr. Miller's visual arts team.
Congratulations, and best of luck with the final judging scheduled for August!
WEHS NAHS & PS Art Club Participate in Elementary Field Trip Day
Thank you to our WEHS NAHS and Portfolio Star club members who provided art activities to North Bridge, Rico, & Ybarra elementary students visiting the high school campus- They loved interacting with the future Wildcats!
Pictured left to right- Emily Estrada, Elissa Marroquin, Mariana Gonzalez ,Abril Moreno, Karen Munoz, Karen Munoz, Katherine Cardona, Kathryn Garza, Brooke Sanchez, & Valeria Galindo
VASE All State & Gold Seal Champs Return to WEHS
Congratulations to Valeria Galindo and Brandy Quiroga for their wins at the Visual Arts Scholastic Event state competition in San Marcos, Texas!
The WEHS student artists received an IV rating, the highest attainable, to which they received All State medals. In addition to her all state wins , Valeria received the Gold Seal medal-- Top 7 percent in the State! Gold seal recognition represents the pinnacle of artistic success in the VASE program.
WEHS Art Students Honored by Congressman Vicente Gonzalez at Brownsville Museum of Fine Art
On Wednesday, April 24, , WEHS art students, parents, and their sponsor Mrs. Miller attended the Congressional Art Competition awards reception at the Brownsville Museum of Fine Art.
Congressman Vicente Gonzalez personally met with each student and encouraged them to continue with their talent and thanked their parents and teachers for their commitment to their childrens' education.
Congratulations to all our students who represented East this evening and special recognition to Brandy Quiroga who was presented an award for being part of the top 10 artists in the competition.
Brandy Quiroga and Valeria Galindo continue their competition schedule this weekend in San Marcos, Texas for the VASE state competition --Wish our WEHS artists luck!!!
Brandy Quiroga - District 34
Karen Munoz - District 34
Valeria Galindo- District 34
Portfolio Star Western Art Prints Fundraiser- Order Soon!
From April 15-24, You can help support a WEHS artist by purchasing a limited edition print of her award winning artwork! Brandy Quiroga created a beautiful depiction of horses galloping in the open field that earned a ribbon at the RGLS Western Art Competition.
Print sizes run 11 x 17" at $25 and 9 x7" at $40. All money returns to the Portfolio Star Art Club for senior member incentives and awards. Please contact Mrs. Miller or speak with Brandy as she will be looking for sponsors.
Thank you for supporting the visual arts and wish us luck with the upcoming state competition where this student hopes to earn an all state title!
WEHS Artist Showcasing at District 39 Office for "Autism Awareness Month"
Jeremy Pena, a WEHS Art 2 student, was selected to showcase his work at the Weslaco office of Texas representative, Armando Martinez, for "Autism Awareness Month".
Jeremy''s work explores the flight of a bird through a variety of color and pattern. His remarkable point of view helps to celebrate "Autism Awareness Month" and hopefully inspires others to be creative and embrace their individuality. The artwork will be on display the month of April.
WEHS Artist Showcasing at District 34 Office for "Autism Awareness Month"
Alan Perlaes, a WEHS Art 2 student, was selected to showcase his work at the Weslaco office of Congressman Vicente Gonzalez Jr. for Autism Awareness Month.
Alan created an abstract work using acrylic paint on canvas. Perales's work explores a variety of color, textures, and patterns that he planned out in his art class at East over a couple of weeks.
The artwork will be on display April 8-12 at the Weslaco City Hall building during regular hours of the week.
WEHS Art Students to Exhibit at STC in April 2024
Congratulations to WEHS art students, Madelyn Gonzalez, Valeria Galindo, Steven Villareal, Elissa Marroquin, Emilio Munoz, Vanessa Flores, Emily Estrada, Angela Juarez, and Isaac Salinas who will be exhibiting at STC, Pecan campus in McAllen.
The exhibit is part of the college's annual "Art & Memory" conference held in early April. Organized by STC professor, Andres Molina Ochoa, PH.D, the public is invited to dive into the realms of memory through artistic interpretation.
In addition to creating artwork, art students submitted works of poetry to be included with other submissions from public schools throughout Region 1. Art students and families have been invited to the opening on April 2 from 5-6 PM.
Art Students Participate in Art & Poetry Workshops at STC - Art & Memory Conference 2024
WEHS Art Student Earns Top Placement in 2024 Western Art Show
Congratulations to WEHS senior artist, Ms. Brandy Quiroga, for her Second Placement award in the Western Art Competition at the Rio Grande Valley Livestock Show. Brandy's painting was on canvas and one of the top selections in the acrylic/oil category for high school students in Region 1.
In addition to this recent award, Ms. Quiroga was selected as a state qualifier in the Visual Arts Scholastic Event.
VASE 24 Results- A Return to Campus with IV Ratings and 3 Advancing to State
Congratulations to WEHS Students who earned perfect scores at the UIL VASE regional competition this past Saturday.
Special recognition to students in Mrs. Miller's team, Valeria Galindo & Brandy Quiroga, who received additional medals for qualifying for state advancement.
Thank you to parents, WEHS staff , Dr. Gamboa, and WISD Fine Arts Dept for their support in this event. Please visit our campus website for scheduled events that continue throughout the year.
Valeria Galindo
Brooke Sanchez
Julissa Lucio
Brandy Quiroga
Elissa Marroquin
Emily Estrada
Ashlin Guevara
Karen Munoz
Mariana Gonzalez
Katherine Cardona
Rachel Fraire
Abril Moreno
WEHS Art Students Participate in TAEA "Big Art Day" Event : Youth Art Month
WEHS art students are celebrating Youth Art Month through "Big Art Day"; a registered state event by the Texas Art Education Association. Big Art Day is a statewide coordinated event that involves dozens of public schools with planned activities to advocate the importance of art education and the creativity of our youth.
Mr. Miller's Art 1 classes created mixed media paintings of landscapes; specifically a focus on the heavens where people make their wishes on the stars to make their dreams come true.
Works may be viewed during campus library hours to staff and students beginning March 7.
SPRING OPEN HOUSE 2024: VASE Artwork Showcased at Campus Commons Area
Mr. & Mrs. Miller organized an artshow for the Wildcats community for the annual Spring Open House. Several parents stopped by and enjoyed the work on display.
2024 SUMMER ART CAMP OPPORTUNITY IN AUSTIN- APPLY FOR SCHOLARSHIP!
Interested in learning about techniques in art from professionals in a college setting? An opportunity during the month of June is open for all art students in grades 9-11 at St. Edwards University. Contact Mr. Miller to apply for a scholarship that covers the tuition, room and board in the college dorms.
WEHS Artist Selected to Exhibit at Bullock Texas State History Museum
Congratulations To Daphne Valero, whose work was selected for a state exhibit in Austin at the Bullock Texas State History Museum. The Youth Art Month exhibit showcases student work from across the state and will be open to the public during the month of March.
Ms. Valero has been invited to attend the awards ceremony near the state capital by the Texas Art Education Association on March 10, 2024.
Daphne Valero is a WEHS senior, a varsity basketball player, and an Art 2 student who plans to compete in the upcoming VASE UIL event in March. She is also a National Art Honor Society member for which the society funded the costs of preparing the artwork for this event.
Special thanks to Mr. Fernandez for coordinating the district submissions,
Dr. Gamboa for his support of the Visual Arts, and the parents of Ms. Daphne Valero.
A KWES video will be available in near future.
NAHS Family Night: "SHAKE RATTLE & ROLL" Fall Art Show 2023
The National Art Honor Society and WEHS Chess Club organized a successful event for parents and members last night!
To the beat of Buddy Holly and Elvis Presley, art students dressed in poodle skirts and rebel jackets welcomed their families to the evening event!
COMMUNITY SERVICE: Weslaco East art students are participating in the annual Dia De Los Muertos community altar exhibit organized by the International Museum of Art & Science in McAllen.
The altar was created to honor Jose Guadalupe Posada, the famous Mexican lithographer, and the exhibit's central theme is Hispanic Innovators.
Over one thousand visitors are expected to view the altar in the museum's Discovery Pavilion from Saturday, October 7 to Saturday, November 5. Congratulations to our Wildcat artists!
COMMUNITY SERVICE: Art Installation Project : A Global Collaboration observing International Peace Day 2023
Students in Mr. & Mrs. Miller's art classes participated in an art installation project this week with schools and organizations in the U.S., Europe, Asia, Australia, Canada, the Middle East, Africa and South America. Through the creation of pinwheels, students used their creativity to express their feeling of tolerance and living with others in harmony. The art project enforced their learning of the three components of art; subject, content, and composition . WEHS art students handcrafted their own works of art to add with the 4.5 million pinwheels spinning in over 3,500 locations around the world. The first set of pinwheels has been installed on the East side of campus near our "Big E" sculpture. More will be added to a final collection of over 200 works of art.
Weslaco East National Art Honor Society showed some class and school spirit by participating in the Friendship Basket exchange at the Friday football game ; Wildcats vs Lobos ... 50's Style!!! Shake, Rattle, & Roll! FALL 2023
WEHS NAHS ANNUAL SUMMER ART CAMP -- Thank you to all our young artists who participated in our annual summer camp !
