A Hart High School senior designed the new logo for a state-wide program that honors schools with exceptional art programs.

In 2013, Tom Torlakson, State Superintendent of Public Instruction, recognized 13 schools across the state with the Exemplary Arts Program Award.   The program was not given an official logo so Hart High Principal Collyn Nielsen suggested a student design one.  The design was presented in Sacramento and was soon designated as the logo for the state-wide program, said Hart art teacher Mary Ann Fragodt.

The logo was designed by Hart senior Bailey James and is now proudly displayed on the front office building along with the California Distinguished school logo.

The Exemplary Program was initiated by the California Department of Education to recognize schools who have had success in efforts to promote the arts, physical activity and nutrition.  Hart High School has been asked to contribute more logo designs for other exemplary programs which include physical activity and nutrition.

Bailey’s logo design is now displayed among dozens of other students produced artwork at the annual Hart Art Show.

The students at Hart say that they owe everything to their teacher Mrs. Mary Ann Fragodt.

“She pushes her students to go further, take risks,” said student artist Kayla Johnson. “And she has helped me more than I can explain.”

“The two designs are so similar you would never know that two different artists created them,” said Johnson.