Katy ISD student artists showcased top notch talent at the 2026 Katy Rice Harvest Festival Art Contest, besting honors in multiple grade levels. Leading the winners was Tompkins High School student Phoebe Cho, who captured both ‘Best of Show’ and first place in the high school division. She was honored at the October 26 meeting of the City of Katy’s city council, where her award-winning work was on display.

Cho, a student of art teacher Christie Skinner, earned the contest's highest distinction for her artwork. Katy High School student Brooklyn Tyler, under the guidance of art teacher Elias Reyes, also received special recognition, earning the ‘Curator's Choice’ award.

From elementary school through high school, Katy ISD students demonstrated their artistic abilities, earning recognition in categories spanning kindergarten through 12th grade.

"The Katy Rice Harvest Festival is a wonderful opportunity for our students to demonstrate creativity and share their talents with the community," Katy ISD Assistant Director of Fine Arts Laura Simoneaux said. "We are proud of these young artists and grateful to the teachers and families who encourage artistic passion."

The annual contest celebrates student creativity and connects young artists with the Katy community through one of the area's longstanding traditions.

Katy ISD congratulates all student artists and their teachers for their accomplishments and contributions to the district's fine arts programs, a district spokesperson said.

2026 Katy Rice Harvest Festival Art Contest Winners

Special Recognition Best of Show: Phoebe Cho, Tompkins High School

Curator's Choice: Brooklyn Tyler, Katy High School

High school division

· First place: Phoebe Cho, Tompkins High School

· Second place: Shylee Bella, Katy High School

· Third place: Sarah Churchill, Katy High School


Junior high division

· First place: Anisha Ethirajulu, Nelson Junior High

· Second place: Enoch Adebutu, Haskett Junior High

· Third place: Jeremias Akamine Cortez, Beck Junior High


Grades 3-5 division

· First place: Robert Thomas Kuehl, Katy Elementary

· Second place: Sophia Holmes, Katy Elementary

· Third place: Kristopher Mazaraki, Pattison Elementary


Kindergarten-Grade 2 division

First place: Isabella Holmes, Katy Elementary