Two Grade 12 students from John McGregor Secondary School (JMSS) have been selected to showcase their work in a province-wide art showcase at Queen's Park.
Emily Poole and Makenna Mifflin will have their pieces displayed as part of the Youth in P-art-liament Program for 2026, an initiative that highlights the creative talents of Ontario's youth at the Legislative Assembly.
"These achievements show what's possible when students are supported and inspired," explained Jenn McQuade, JMSS Art Teacher. "Emily and Makenna represent everything we strive for in our arts program - creativity, resilience, and a willingness to engage with the community."
Poole's work is titled The Room That Listens.
She said she'll never forget the moment she learned her piece had been selected.
"When I got the email, I was actually in my art class," Poole shared. "I read it and said, 'Oh my gosh!' Then I showed Mrs. McQuade, and she got really excited and hugged me. She told the class, and they clapped and were all so excited for me. This accomplishment has been really validating for me as a young artist."
Poole credited her teachers and the art program at JMSS for the honour.
"They've not only pushed me academically but in my personal life," she said. "I want to give a special shout-out to Mrs. McQuade for relighting my creative side and always pushing me to be a better artist."
Mifflin had similar sentiments, particularly regarding the encouragement she's received from her art teacher.
"She encouraged us to submit our art pieces to the Youth in P-art-liament Program, and I got accepted. I thank her for pushing us to get our work out there because it’s always worth trying," Mifflin said.
Her winning painting is called Togetherness Blooms.
According to the school, both students have taken full advantage of JMSS's arts program, including initiatives such as Art After Hours, the creation of community murals, and partnerships with local businesses and galleries, as well as projects like JMSS RetroFest, where students painted portraits of vintage cars for downtown displays.
Both girls plan to pursue creative ventures in their futures. Poole hopes to become an art therapist. Mifflin looks to become an interior designer.
