Students from Kent Vocational Options and Community Based Instruction (KVO/CBOT) have always enjoyed the exploration and discussions generated by touring ArtPrize. On Thursday, Sept 27, in addition to the works of art, students were very excited to meet some local celebrities and impressed with the friendliness and approachability they demonstrated.

“I was honored,” said KVO/CBOT student Shawn Feldt. Anna Britton, one of his classmates was also excited by the encounter.

“He was a really nice guy because he made sure that I was in the photo,” says Britton. Britton uses a wheelchair and it can be awkward at times for her to be part of photographs. Despite wearing a beautiful suit, Mayor Heartwell didn’t hesitate to take a seat on the curb in front of Britton’s wheelchair. 

Mike Berdo and Ryan Chichester where star struck to meet Jordan Carson of Wood TV. Ryan Chichester, a student of the KVO First Place Classroom said, “It was neat to meet her. She was very nice.” 

KVO /CBOT’s mission is to provide instruction and opportunities designed to maximize the abilities of students to live as purposefully and independently as possible and this includes being an active participant of their community. ArtPrize provides this opportunity. Thanks to people like Mayor Heartwell and Jordan Carson, ArtPrize offers an inclusive and accepting environment for all individuals.