American Legion Middle School Essay Contest Winner

It was open to all middle school students in Virginia, whether in public or private schools. Each essay had to start with the phrase “I like living in America because . . . ;” it had to be completed in class as an assignment; and each essay had to be less than 160 words.

Jada’s essay was judged the best in the school and then won1st place again against local middle school students from schools such as Longfellow Middle School and Cooper Middle School. Jada’s essay also won 1st Place in the American Legion 17th District (which oversees 17 American Legion Posts in the cities of Alexandria, Fairfax and Falls Church and the counties of Arlington and Fairfax). 

We also congratulate and thank Jada’s Social Studies teacher, Mr. Shawn Ratliff who facilitated the contest through his Social Studies classes and supported Jada. Mr. Ratliff also received recognition from the American Legion.

In addition to congratulating Jada, we thank Mr. Tony Sarver, the Social Studies department chair and an American Legion Chairman of Children and Youth Activities.

The story of the Middle school essay winner is now featured in the Sun Gazette newspaper, Click here to read more.