Ninth grade students in New London High School’s Freshmen Academy were invited to participate in the American Legion Auxiliary’s annual essay contest.

With assistance from their American and Global Studies teachers, Brian Mathu and Kristin Dalen-Bard, and their English 9 teachers, Candace Eisch-Groebner and Joanna Ledgerwood, students wrote 450-500 word essays answering this year’s topic: “How can I show my pride in being an American?” Students brainstormed ideas, organized their individual ideas into five-paragraph essays, and edited their work.

The top 25 percent were submitted to the local ALA Norris Spencer Unit 263; from those essays, the unit selected the top eleven essays. Tristan Piotter received 1st place, and his essay will be submitted to the State ALA competition. Destiny Kent merited 2nd place, Madi Polley earned 3rd place, and eight other freshmen received honorable mention: Landon Elsner, Cassi Mytton, Kaitlyn Nelson, Emily Olson, Zach Ryan, Calista Wenzel, Erin Wetzel, and Devin Winkler.

“Similar to the American Legion, the American Legion Auxiliary works tirelessly to advocate on behalf of veterans and to promote patriotism and good citizenship,” Mathu said. “Civic education and knowledge about our country and government are critical components to our democracy. Our ninth grade American and Global Studies course is designed with this in mind.

“We appreciate the American Legion Auxiliary for all that they do for our community, county, state, and country,” Mathu said. “Additionally, we appreciate the ninth graders’ participation. We congratulate Tristan and other finalists for their well written essays.”