On Thursday, January 9, 2025, the Palmetto Youth Center buzzed with excitement as students gathered for the annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Student Arts Contest awards ceremony. This year, students celebrated the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. by creating artwork, writing and delivering essays, or performing music, all centered around the theme "Our Kids, Our Future".
Lakewood Ranch High School's 9th-grade students dominated the speech contest, showcasing their eloquence and passion. Luna A. took home the first-place prize, followed by Ella T. in second place, and Joseph G. in third. Alexandra C. received an honorable mention for her impressive speech.
In the Visual Arts Contest, Shalynn J., a 9th-grade student from Palmetto High School, emerged victorious. Orchid N., a senior from Braden River High School, earned second place for her artwork.
The Music Contest saw Ariana P., a 10th-grade student from Lakewood Ranch High School, clinch the first-place award with her captivating performance.
In the middle school category, Kara Y., a 7th-grade student from Braden River Middle School, earned first place in the speech and essay contest, with BRMS 8th grader Alyah S.M. coming in a close second. For visual arts, Mikaela B. and Skylynn S. earned first and second place, respectively, while third place went to Benjamin S. from Nolan Middle School.
First place contest winners received $150, second place winners received $100, and third place winners received $75. Winning entries from the middle and high school categories will be presented at the Martin Luther King, Jr. Banquet on January 17, 2025.
The event was a testament to the incredible talent and dedication of these young artists and their educators, who continue to inspire their peers and community with their creativity and hard work.
The Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Student Arts Contest is sponsored by Bealls Inc., Blalock Walters, P.A., CS&L CPAs, and METV.