The essay winners stand with the Kiwanis members who have served our country.
Left to right (top): Roger Stafford, Jim Downing, Mike Pope, Jim Gilchrist, Don Keyes, Dick Wendel
Left to right (bottom): Olivia Simpson, Trip Fries, Ally Scheeser (not pictured: Ellese Lowery)
During a May Kiwanis Club of Mariemont meeting, the writers of the winning Memorial Day essays read their written works of art. All of the winners are currently in 6th grade in the Mariemont City School District, and all of the winners will read their essays during the Memorial Day ceremony in each district community.
“This is an opportunity for kids to investigate for themselves what this holiday really means,” said Ericka Simmons, principal at Mariemont Elementary. “It allows our students to realize their writing and research skills, while gaining an understanding about an important part of our collective history as a nation.”
The essay winners are Trip Fries from Terrace Park Elementary; Ally Scheeser from Mariemont Elementary, representing Mariemont; and Ellese Lowery from Mariemont Elementary, representing Fairfax. Olivia Simpson, from Mariemont Elementary, was named runner up.
“I feel honored to see the lasting impact that writing these essays has made on our students,” said Ann Williams, teacher at Terrace Park Elementary. “They go home and ask their parents about family members and their own family history. After Memorial Day, the students come to school and tell me they get it now, they understand the importance of the holiday.”
The essays focus on the bravery of all of those that have protected or currently protect our country, the sacrifices people have made for freedom and other patriotic anecdotes and historical facts, including the celebrations of and reflections on the life and impact of a soldier or veteran.
Trip Fries’ Essay
Ally Scheeser’s Essay
Ellese Lowery’s Essay
Olivia Simpson’s Essay