Constitution Day is celebrated in the United States on Friday, September 17, 2021, and Manatee County high school seniors are celebrating the 234th anniversary of the signing of the U.S. Constitution by submitting an essay on “What the Constitution Means to Me”. The Constitution essay contest is a project led by Dr. Robin Thompson and the Manatee School District’s Curriculum Department.
Manatee County's traditional high school students submitted essays and a committee of community members serving as judges selected the top five essays. The winners, along with a parent and their social studies teacher, attended a special reception on Monday, September 13, 2021, at Pier 22 Restaurant in Bradenton. Winners were presented with cash prizes including $300 for first place, $200 for second place and $100 for the third, fourth and fifth place.
The following students were recognized for their winning essays:
First place - Alexandra Vernon, Palmetto High
Second place - Aura Lopez Ignacio, Bayshore High
Third place - Jordan Baker, Lakewood Ranch High
Fourth place - Mia Rooke, Palmetto High
Fifth place - Arianna Majano, Lakewood Ranch High
Congratulations!
Thanks to our community judges including Tarnisha Cliatt, President of Manasota Black Chamber of Commerce; Kathy Doddridge, Regent, Manatee Chapter of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution; Gregory Hagopian, Esq., Gallagher & Hagopian, Attorneys; and Brian A. Iten, Esq., Manatee County Sheriff’s Office.
Thank you to our sponsors:
Gallagher and Hagopian Attorneys
W. Wade Thompson P.A.
Kallins & Little & Brosious
Chris M. Pratt, P.A.
The Constitution Day Essay Contest and Reception was founded by Dave "Watchdog" Miner; and organized with assistance from Bradenton Rotary Club and the Manatee Education Foundation.
