News – Sheridan Media
Two Sheridan County High School students have been recognized for writing about how their lives have been shaped through good behavior.
As part of the American Dream Essay Contest run by the Boys and Girls Club of Central Wyoming, 560 Wyoming high school students wrote poignant essays about how their lives have been shaped by a personal code of ethics, and a total of $36,150 was given in educational awards.
The local first place winners from schools throughout the state met at the state competition this past Sunday in Casper for the awards ceremony.
Dellana Michelena, of Arvada-Clearmont High School, wrote the second-place essay, “To Be Proud,” and received $3,000, in addition to her local earnings of $300.
Her essay shares a touching account of how an influential aunt inspired her to take pride in her work.
Her teacher sponsor, Betsy Mack, will receive an additional $750, totaling $1,550 through this year’s contest.
Rivers Robinson of Tongue River won honorable mention for her essay and won $1,000.
The American Dream Essay contest has impacted the lives of youth for more than 21 years in Wyoming.
Students have experienced life-changing discoveries about who they are and their future potential.
The American Dream Essay Contest is centered on “Ten Principles to Live By,” as highlighted in the book, _Cowboy Ethics, _by bestselling author Jim Owens.
Every high school and homeschool student in grades 9-12 was invited to participate by reflecting on the Ten Principles or their personal ethical beliefs, and writing an essay based on these guiding forces.
This contest is a completely voluntary event.
Teachers who participate make time for it within their current lesson plans and make it a point to encourage their students to participate.
They are compensated for full-class participation, years of participation, and if one of their student’s places in the top three of the state contest.
This year, 28 teachers participated, who have a combined 120 collective years of American Dream Essay participation.
Information Courtesy: Boys and Girls Club of Central Wyoming
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Last modified: April 18, 2023