The Patriot’s Pen essay contest has a theme that each essay should be modeled around and this year it was “What is Patriotism to Me.” After the students submitted their essays, TVMS counselor Courtney Miller conducted the paper work for each student’s work to be submitted to the VFW for judging.

This year, three Terra Vista Middle School seventh graders from Sara Hill’s Social Studies classes, were recognized for their submitted essays. Kenzy Elfeki placed third at TMVS, Franck Makong placed second at TVMS, and Gabryel Jaime placed first at TVMS and fourth in the nation.

Hill said the students essays were judged based on three categories: knowledge of the theme, theme development, and clarity of ideas.

“When the students were given their prompt, the only information I gave them was the definition of patriotism which is ‘the feeling of love, devotion, and sense of attachment to a homeland and alliance with other citizens who share the same sentiment,’” Hill said. “According to the contest rules, the essay must be a contestant's original work and product of the contestant's own thinking, so I did not interfere with the students while writing, in order for it to be as authentic as possible.”

Hill said when the results came back, Ms. Miller called the students down to the office.

“Normally, the Veterans would come dressed in their uniforms and there would be a ceremony, but due to COVID, they were unable to do that,” Hill said. “Ms. Miller still made this experience for them very memorable and exciting when she presented them with their awards!”

Hill said she also announced it to her fifth period class, which is also the class that all three winners are part of.

“It was such a sweet moment between them all, and it was heartwarming to see the excitement each of them had for their peers,” Hill said. “I really think this contest shows our students that they are capable of doing amazing things and making an impact not only here but beyond our community. I hope this experience leaves them feeling encouraged that their voices can be heard.”

Gabryel Jaime won fourth place nationally and first place at TVMS. She said she wrote about first-responders and every day American citizens

“I wrote about first-responders and how I think they are patriotic because they put their lives on the line for people every day,” Jaime said. “I also wrote about how everyone can be patriotic by putting their hand on their heart during the Pledge of Allegiance, putting out American flags at their house, and doing things that show respect for our country.”