March 2, 2026 - Memorial Early College High School opened its doors in 2009 as one of only two high schools in the nation to hold the designations of both an Early College High School and New Technology High School. Their project-based learning approach gives students hands-on opportunities in the classroom, further enriching their education and providing them with real-world experience.
Art teachers Ashley Buehler and Lynn Odom work together to create engaging lessons that cultivate passion. Buehler explains, “We don't use a "one size fits all" approach. We break the teaching into levels, making sure the lessons follow a logical path, starting with simple steps and moving toward harder skills as the students move into more advanced art classes.”
Before Buehler came to Comal ISD, she began her art career with her very own studio in Gruene, Traveling ART. There she hosted lessons, workshops, and parties, while also taking time to illustrate two children's books.
Buehler’s passion for teaching brought her to Mountain Valley Middle, then Davenport High for its first year, and she has since been settled in MECHS for the past five years.
“I have a passion for curriculum writing and believe in the project-based learning model to help inspire students to want to learn and improve their skills,” said Buehler. “I believe in modeling a strong work ethic for students and challenging my art students to compete and showcase their work.”
All of the hard work pays off, as MECHS art students' captivating creations continue to earn recognition in local shows, regionally and statewide. Thanks to teachers like Buehler, Comal ISD students have inspiring role models in the classroom offering their experience and valuable professional insights.
Thank you Ashley Buehler for dedicating yourself to Comal ISD students’ Paths to Success
View the list of awards the MECHS Art students have received this school year below:
New Braunfels Art League: "Home Brewed Fantasy" Show
On display until March 22
Kyndal Leasman - 2nd Place for Painting, Mixed Media, Digital, and Photography
Stone Stanford - 1st Place for Drawing
Luna Vasquez - 3rd Place for Drawing
Region 13S VASE
MECHS had 40 Entries
Of those 40 entries, 27 received a score of 4 and medal
6 entries advanced to State VASE
Jaden Adams
Lucy Peters
Johana Aguirre-Esquer
Ashton Land
Kei Ikehata
Laura Mendoza Moto
Photo Descriptions
- Memorial Early College High School art student painting.
- Memorial Early College High School art teacher Ashley Buehler assisting a student with their painting.
- Memorial Early College High School art student's sculpture of a common area in a home.