Beaty-Warren Middle School and Warren Area Elementary Center students attended the Memorial Day Ceremony at the Warren County Courthouse to read their winning essays.

Students from Beaty-Warren Middle School and Warren Area Elementary Center were recognized for their outstanding writing and patriotism as part of the Annual American Legion Essay Contest.

This year’s contest theme, “Celebrating America’s 250th Birthday and the Veterans who Fought for Our Freedom,” challenged students to reflect on the nation’s upcoming anniversary while honoring the sacrifices of veterans who have defended the country.

The contest was organized locally by Pam Colvin, American Legion Auxiliary Americanism Essay Chairman, who visited both schools to present certificates and monetary awards to the winning students. Teachers Rebecca Downey of Warren Area Elementary Center and Meggi Brown and Amy Kuppertz of Beaty-Warren Middle School encouraged students to participate and assisted them in editing and finalizing their essays.

The top finishers were also invited to read their essays during the Memorial Day Ceremony held at the Warren County Courthouse on May 26. Participating students included Sophia Kenworthy, Emily Campbell, Caleb Hellman, Oliver Mohr, Beatrice Miller and Kaylee Gray. Damian Bailey, who also earned a top placement, was unable to attend the photo opportunity.

Division I (Grades 3-4, 150-250 words)

Third Grade

1st Place: Beatrice Miller

2nd Place: Blake Peterson

3rd Place: Magnus Ferrie

Fourth Grade

1st Place: Oliver Mohr

2nd Place: Caleb Hellman

3rd Place: Alanna Sharp

Division II (Grades 5-6, 250-300 words)

1st Place: Elizabeth Rockwell

2nd Place: Damian Bailey

3rd Place: Emily Campbell

Division III (Grades 7-8, 350-400 words)

1st Place: Sophia Kenworthy

2nd Place: Kaylee Gray

3rd Place: Paightyn Lewis

Rebecca Downey, WAEC’s Gifted and Enrichment Teacher, praised the students’ efforts and the support of the American Legion.

“We are so proud of all the students for their hard work, creativity and patriotism and for the American Legion who support our military and veterans in our community,” Downey said.

Meggi Brown, Beaty-Warren Middle School’s Gifted and Enrichment Teacher, said she continues to be impressed by the students’ thoughtful responses each year.

“Every year, I continue to be inspired by our students with their depth and sincerity as they address the essay prompt relating to patriotism,” Brown said. “Their reflections reveal not only a clear understanding of the topic, but a genuine connection to what it means to be an American citizen.”

The American Legion Auxiliary’s Americanism Essay Contest encourages students nationwide to explore themes of citizenship, patriotism and service through writing while developing a deeper appreciation for the nation’s history and the sacrifices made by veterans.