MLK Essay Winners

The annual Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday celebration was held virtually this year on Monday, January 18, 2021. The community event brings all members of the community together for a celebration of Dr. King’s life. 

Galesburg 7th and 8th grade students were offered the opportunity to participate in the celebration by entering the essay contest. Each year a different topic was given to challenge students to learn about the sacrifices made for freedom and equal rights.  Topics over the years have included Selma, Emmitt Till, Fannie Lou Hamer. 

For this year's contest, students were asked to write about Congressman John Lewis and his famous quote about, “Good Trouble” and how to redeem the soul of America.  Approximately, sixty students submitted essays this year and the following students were selected as the winners. 

1st Place: Andrew K., 8th Grade

2nd Place: Saphie M., 7th Grade

3rd Place: Jayden K., 7th Grade

Andrew had the opportunity to read his essay during the virtual celebration. Teresa Haley, Illinois NAACP president, was the guest speaker for the event. She spoke about prayer, purpose, proactive and protection as ways for being in “good trouble” and helping heal our communities. 

Churchill Junior High teacher, Teresa Powell, has been involved with the contest for the past 10 years. According to Teresa, “The celebration is such a wonderful way to reflect on our lives and how can we serve and be kind to others in our community.”

We would like to extend our thanks to all the students who participated in the essay contest this year and congratulations to Andrew, Saphie and Jayden!