Alisa Nascimento, 9, sports a sweat shirt bearing a logo she designed. Alisa beat 75 other students in a competition to have their artwork displayed on the school’s “spirit wear.” (Jimmy Norris / S&S)
YONGSAN GARRISON, South Korea — While she won’t see a cut of the money, fourth-grader Alisa Nascimento has the pride that goes with knowing her teachers and fellow students are paying for the privilege of having her dolphins swim across their chests.
Alisa’s drawing of four dolphins circling American and South Korean flags while surrounded by the phrase "leap into learning" beat artwork by 75 other Seoul American Elementary School students to earn a spot on the school’s "spirit wear."
"It feels special," said 9-year-old Alisa after the awards ceremony, where she received a free sweatshirt bearing her drawing Thursday. "It makes me known for what I’ve done."
Alisa said that when she entered the competition, she didn’t believe she’d win, having seen the other students’ artwork. The surprise, she said, boosted her confidence.
"It makes me feel happy," she said. "And glad [people are] wearing a shirt with my design on it."
Fellow competitors also said they were happy for Alisa.
"If I had won, I’d be scared other people would see my drawing," said fourth-grader Kananie Hickson.
Parent Teacher Organization president Kelly Morris said this was the first year student artwork was used to adorn school T-shirts and sweatshirts.
Artwork had to feature the school’s mascot — a dolphin — and "incorporate both Korea and America as a theme."
She said the money raised from the sale of clothing goes back into the school for things like library books, Internet-based education programs and money for teachers to use in their classrooms.
The PTO has already sold 170 T-shirts and sweatshirts bearing Alisa’s design.
Help wantedPTO President Kelly Morris said the PTO needs volunteers to help with school events and fundraising. Anyone interested, she said, can contact her via e-mail at saes.pto@gmail.com.
