Kirstyn Kiger had absolutely no idea what she was being called down to the office for on the day she got the news she had won the DAR Christopher Columbus Essay Contest. I could tell her excitement and surprise when she found out the news.

As teachers do sometimes, Kirstyn’s English teacher Mrs. Birnell had offered up the essay as a way to earn extra credit points, which, in my opinion, would give a very good incentive to write the essay and enter the contest. Most kids never take the time to write these essays because they think they have enough points in the class or they think they won’t win. Luckily, Kirstyn took the chance.  

“I didn’t think I was going to win. I only did this paper to gain some extra credit points. When I found out I won, I was starstruck! I am so honored that the DAR picked my essay as the winner. I am also honored to represent Lewis Cass,” Kirstyn said.

“Kirstyn surprised herself by winning the essay contest, but she has a great writing style and put effort into the work so she is very deserving of the award,” Mrs. Birnell said.   

Kirstyn’s essay won overall at the state level and will go on to be judged on the divisional level. If she wins at the divisional level, the essay will go to the national level and she will have a chance to win a cash prize and a trip to Washington D.C. To win a state essay contest is an amazing accomplishment and I wish Kirstyn congratulations and the best of luck!