Three high school students were invited to attend a special luncheon held by the Bradenton Rotary Club and Sons of the American Revolution on September 25, 2023.
The seniors read their essays titled, “What the Constitution Means to Me,” to an audience filled with rotary members, parents, educators, school district leaders and board members including Vice-Chair Cindy Spray, Mary Foreman, Gina Messenger and Richard Tatum.
Former school board member, Dave “Watchdog” Miner, who founded the essay contest, was also in attendance.
This annual event coincides with American Constitution Day, celebrated on September 17th to commemorate the formation and signing of the U.S. Constitution.
The following students were recognized for their winning essays:
First place (tie) – William Blaine, Manatee High School
First place (tie) – Sophia D’Orazio, Lakewood Ranch High School
Third place – Savannah Higgins, Palmetto High School
Mr. Blaine and Ms. D’Orazio each received $2,500 and their essays now advance to the Florida Sons of the American Revolution constitutional scholarship competition.
Ms. Higgins received $1,000.
The students were each accompanied by family members and their social studies teacher.
Superintendent Jason Wysong and Deputy Superintendent Derek Jensen also attended the event.