The Animation program at Atascocita High School, (AHS) continues to make its mark on the Texas film scene. At the 2025 UIL Film Contest, held on February 27 in Austin, AHS animator Meagan Frazier’s “Saving Grace” and DeVahn Williams’ “DIY” took home top honors, further cementing the school’s legacy in animation excellence. “The Haven”, a film by Olivia Williams took 7th place in the 6A Traditional Animation category Watch all of the films produced by AHS Animation at the AHS Animation website.
Since the UIL Film Contest’s inception in 2014, AHS animators have consistently demonstrated their skill and dedication, qualifying for the state contest five times. This year’s victory adds to an impressive record, which includes two gold medals, one silver, two bronze, three fourth-place finishes, and three fifth-place finishes.
Animation 2 and Practicum students dedicate months to their craft, starting with original story concepts and developing characters, environments, and props. They bring their visions to life through animation, lighting, voice acting, sound design, and music. Nine films entered production this year, and three were completed and submitted for the UIL competition. Thirteen students earned letter jackets by qualifying for the state semi-finals.
Ten talented students represented AHS at the contest: Natalie Bouska, Ashley Canales, Meagan Frazier, Juan Mercadomorales, Kaylee Menchaca, Jamal Moody, Mark Sandoval, DeVahn Williams, Olivia Williams, and Ari’anna Wiltz.
Frazier, making her second UIL state appearance following a fourth-place finish in 2024 with After Dark, and Williams served as directors, leading their teams through the creation to the final rendering of their films.
While in Austin, the students attended screenings of the 6A and 5A films and participated in animation workshops hosted by the University of Texas Moody College of Communication. They also engaged with professors and industry professionals, toured the campus, and explored the city's cultural opportunities.
AHS’s continued success at the UIL Film Contest highlights the dedication, hard work, creativity, and passion of its animation students. Their achievements this year further strengthen the school’s reputation as a leader in high school animation education. Congratulations to all the students and their teacher, Ann Wehrman, on an outstanding performance
