Simmons Students Win Essay Contest!Simmons Students Win Essay Contest!

Simmons Middle School students, Jocelyn Martinez Soto, 7th Grade and Crystal Fabela, 8th Grade have both been awarded 1st Place of the Aurora Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution American History Essay Contest for Middle School Students.

When asked what she felt about winning Ms. Martinez Soto responded, “I was surprised and happy!”

Ms. Martinez Soto is currently a student in Ms. Andres’, 7th Grade ELA Honors class. “Jocelyn is the type of student who really is an independent learner. Currently she is reading, Chernow’s biography of Alexander Hamilton! I think that tells you how determined and ambitious she is! She challenges herself with her reading and writing. Her work often serves as a model for others. But she is very humble about her achievements. The kind of student you cherish in the classroom.”

This is Ms. Fabela’s second time winning this contest. She won last year as a 7th grader and was very excited to place again this year. “Well, I did scream when I opened the letter,” said Ms. Fabela. “I honestly only read the first sentence and texted my parents the good news!”

Currently, Ms. Fabela is a student in Mr. Timm’s 8th Grade Honors ELA. When asked about his student, Mr. Timm remarked, “As a writer Crystal has a rare combination of creativity and mechanical excellence. It is such a gift as an ELA teacher to see a student take such joy and pride in her writing. Although I am not surprised at all that she won, I couldn’t be any prouder of Crystal.”

The essay contest marked the 100th anniversary of Congress passing the 19th Amendment which gave women the right to vote. This Amendment was ratified in August of 1920. Contestants were asked to write an essay coming from the point of view of someone who had lived at that time and how the 19th Amendment positively impacted women and society of the United States.

There will be a reception February 10 at 1pm at the Oswego Public Library, Montgomery Campus, 1111 Reading Drive, Montgomery for all the essay winners, Grades 6-12.

We are so proud of these Simmons Panthers who offered this advice to future contestants:

“Put all you got in it! Try your best,” said Jocelyn.

“Take a chance, you never know what might happen,” offered Crystal.