Winners announced in HSCHS essay contest

Four members of the junior class at Hot Springs County High School were recently named winners in the American Dream Essay Contest, sponsored by Boys and Girls Clubs of Central Wyoming.

Started in 1987, the contest promotes writing skills and personal growth for students as they reflect on and write about one of the Cowboy Ethics that make an impact on their decisions, goals and attitudes.

This year, Rebekah Johnson was named first place winner for Hot Springs County High School by a team of anonymous judges. Johnson was given a $300 award for her essay entitled “Always Keep Fighting”, and will move on to the statewide contest where she could win $5,000.

Other winners included KyAnn Calhoun in second place with “The Drive to Strive”, winning her $200.

A tie for third place was between Ryan Miller’s “Dynamic Moral Character” and Corina Williams’ “The Common Sense Rule.” Miller and Williams each received a $50 award.

English teacher Lyle Wiley organized the event locally.

“I’ve been part of the contest for seven years now,” Wiley said. “It is a great opportunity for students to communicate what is most important to them and how they’ve come to learn what is most important.”

The state contest includes a banquet in Casper in April when prizes will be awarded.