NORTH ROBINSON – Each year, more than 165,400 students across the country in grades six through eight enter the VFW’s Patriot’s Pen youth essay contest for a chance to win their share of more than $1.4 million in state and national awards. The essay contest encourages young minds to examine America’s history, along with their own experiences in modern American society, by drafting a 300- to 400-word essay, expressing their views based on a patriotic theme chosen by the VFW Commander-in-Chief.
In the fall, seventh and eighth-grade students in Mrs. Whitt’s classes at William Crawford Intermediate School were offered the opportunity to participate in the annual essay contest through the Galion VFW. With the topic of “What Patriotism Means to Me,” the school’s students swept the local awards with Brayden Hickman winning first place, Rayna Shelton second and Lexi Dure coming in at third place.
Hickman’s essay went on to the district level where he again took first place and Shelton also placed in districts. As a first-place winner, Hickman’s essay went up against others from all 12 VFW districts across the state. Crawford County is a part of District 10 along with six surrounding counties.
Hickman is a 7th grader and the son of Levi and Jessica Hickman. He said he enjoyed the contest.
“I wrote the essay to explain to other people how important patriotism is to me. I was excited to win, and I am happy to be a part of it,” Hickman said.
William Crawford Intermediate Principal April Bond said this is a great experience for students.
“I am thankful we have community partners, like the Galion VFW, who provide these opportunities for our students, and I am appreciative of Mrs. Whitt as she takes the time in class to provide a chance for students to express themselves and be recognized for their efforts and abilities,” said Bond. “We have wonderful students here at Colonel Crawford, and I am proud to see them representing us well in the community.”
Colonel Crawford Local Schools provides education to over 900 students from preschool through 12th grade. The district offers a curriculum with a wide range of electives and comprehensive courses of study in college preparatory, vocational and physical education programs. The district’s mission is to enable students to grow academically and socially by providing a safe, positive and challenging learning environment.