Cave Creek Unified students win Arizona Educational Foundation’s writing contest

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Cave Creek Unified School District would like to congratulate Sonoran Trails Middle School 8th grade student, Sophia Barnedo, for taking first place in Arizona Educational Foundation‘s 2018 Polly Rosenbaum Creative Writing Contest. She won with her original poem entitled “Respect.”

Shelley Kniffen, STMS English teacher said, “We’re so proud of Sophia for giving voice to an important topic in today’s tense political climate.”

CCUSD would also like to congratulate Cactus Shadows High School freshmen Brooklyn Presta (2nd place) and Emma Arias (3rd place) in the 9/10 category and juniors, Rena Jakway (2nd place) and Natasha Jarik (3rd place) in the 11/12 category.

Christine Marsh, Cactus Shadows High School English teacher and Arizona’s 2016 Teacher of the Year said, “The topic this year, ‘What is the importance of civility in civic discourse,’ was so poignant, and it challenged the students to think about civic discourse in their own lives and in the broader society. Many of the essays from Cactus Shadows students were powerful, but four winning essays were especially insightful and creative. Most adults could learn something from our bright young students.”

All students were recognized at a special event at the Arizona State Capitol on February 14.

First place winners received a $50 gift certificate and had the opportunity to read their winning submission out loud at the event.

Second place winners received a $25 gift certificate; and third place winners received a $15 gift certificate.

Arizona Educational Foundation’s website states:

The Polly Rosenbaum Writing Contest is named for Polly Rosenbaum, a former House Representative in the Arizona State Legislature and teacher, who passed away in 2003 at the age of 104.

This writing contest is a long-standing tradition honoring Mrs. Rosenbaum, who believed Arizona’s young people are the state’s greatest resource.

Each year the Arizona Educational Foundation establishes a theme for the writing contest.

Thank you Sophia, Brooklyn, Emma, Rena and Natasha for representing Cave Creek Unified School District at this event.

Cave Creek Unified School District is the number 1 school district for student achievement in Maricopa County. To learn more, please visit our website at www.ccusd93.org or call 480-575-2000.

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