Kelsey Skordal, a junior at Mercer Island High School, has been recognized with a regional Gold Key in The Scholastic Art Awards of 2011 presented by the Alliance for Young Artists & Writers, a nonprofit organization dedicated to recognizing teenagers with exceptional artistic and literary talent.

“Kelsey has been studying art for several years and has always shown tremendous focus and discipline in her classes. She found her true talent in drawing and has created some truly beautiful works of art. Our entire art department is so proud of her for achieving this wonderful national recognition,” said MIHS art teacher Robb Wick.

Skordal’s drawings were among 180,000 works submitted through regional programs throughout the United States. Of these, 670 artworks from the Region-at-Large earned Gold Key recognition.

All Gold Key work is currently being reviewed on the national level in New York City by panels of artists and creative professionals.