Students across Rockford Public Schools were recognized for their creativity and patriotism as part of a community initiative celebrating America’s upcoming 250th anniversary.
Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara and Winnebago County Board Chairman Joe Chiarelli visited schools throughout the district to present Essay & Visual Art Contest winners with certificates and $100 gift cards. The contest encouraged students to explore the nation’s history, reflect on what America means to them, and express their ideas through writing and art.
Students from elementary, middle, and high schools participated in the contest, showcasing thoughtful perspectives and impressive creativity.
Visual Art Contest winners included:
Zelda Moffitt, 2nd grade, Montessori
Cynthia Cervantes, 7th grade, West Middle School
Aliana Voight, 6th grade, West Middle School
Andrea Perez Amaya, 7th grade, Kennedy Middle School
Yitzhak Alvarez Aguero, 6th grade, Marshall Middle School
Shloka Nandhikonda, 5th grade, Marshall Middle School
Emily Malavong, 7th grade, Marshall Middle School
Jisa Patel, 8th grade, Marshall Middle School
Noelle Ebens, 8th grade, Eisenhower Middle School
Essay Contest winners included:
Emma Black, 5th grade, Froberg Elementary School
George Porter, 6th grade, Marshall Middle School
Maddison Gibson, 8th grade, Eisenhower Middle School
Walter Hall, 6th grade, Kennedy Middle School
Josie Pirello, 5th grade, Marshall Middle School
Sofia Herrera, 6th grade, Barbour Middle School
Jackalyn Paris Diaz, 6th grade, Kennedy Middle School
Eleanor Powell, 10th grade, Auburn High School
Kavya Patel, 9th grade, Auburn High School
The contest gave students an opportunity to connect with history while sharing their own voices and perspectives about the future of the country.