MERF Hosts Tiger Art Gallery and Honors Student Achievement

The recent Tiger Art Gallery at VHS was a wonderful community event that brought together students, families, and staff to celebrate creativity and learning. Student artwork created throughout the year was proudly displayed, featuring a variety of media, including clay, watercolor, paper crafts, and mixed media. MERF’s Art Instructor, Sherryl Lewis, shared, “I was so happy to let the students take home a multitude of works that had accumulated over the last few years. The kids really enjoyed being part of the process of this event.” The event reflected a strong sense of pride and excitement as students shared their work with the community.

The evening also included two student performances, with kindergarten through third grade performing “Hakuna Matata” and fourth through sixth grade performing “Eye of the Tiger.” Families enjoyed experiencing both visual and performing art forms, creating a joyful atmosphere of connection and celebration.

Local resident Marcella Shigley Campbell shared, “Absolutely amazing! How great for those students! Nothing’s right or wrong in art, and nothing can bolster a child’s confidence like achieving something terrific!” The event reflected a strong sense of pride and excitement as students shared their work with the community.

The Mentone Educational Resources Foundation would like to extend sincere gratitude to the Alabama State Council on the Arts for supporting this event through the Live Arts Grant, as well as to Mentone Market for generously providing pizza for families and guests.

In addition to the celebration of the arts, MERF recently awarded the Carter Holland Memorial Scholarships and the Mountain Spirit Award to students who exemplify kindness, leadership, character, and service in their daily lives. These awards recognize students who consistently demonstrate compassion and integrity within their schools and the broader community. Their achievements reflect the values of service and connection that continue to strengthen the Mentone community.

Mountain Spirit Award winners are, 6th grade: Abrielle DeSantis; 8th grade: Eunice Campos; and 12th grade: Braylie Callahan

Carter Holland Scholarship winners are Bailey Trammell and Raegan Key

MERF is so proud to support young learners as they grow and feel connected to their community! We wish all the seniors a successful first year in their post-high school experience! Whether it’s college, trade school, or starting a business or building connections, we are proud of you and wish you wonderful things along the way!