Sophia Sharypov - Mustangs Ahead
(LAKEWOOD RANCH, FL) - Lakewood Ranch High School (LRHS) dominated this year’s Constitution Day Essay Contest, bringing home every single medal.
Seniors Kylie Scott won first place and $1500, Zachariah Kersey took second and $750, and Chloe Drapak earned third and $500.
Scott’s essay was rooted in her military family traditions and her own dream of forging a new path in nursing. She opened with the bold line: “From the moment the Constitution was ratified in 1789, it has stood as our nation’s identity.”
For Scott, the Constitution means justice, principle, and family. “I didn’t think my angle was special at all, but I’m proud because the more I wrote, the more I realized who I want to be,” she said. Her three words: Traditions. Patriarchy. Identity.
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Second-place winner Kersey took a different angle, focusing on freedom of independent thought—a value inspired by his mom throughout his childhood.
His essay argued that the Constitution protects the right to think freely, even when young people feel their voices aren’t taken seriously.
“I found a more profound sense of thinking for myself without media and friends shaping my opinion,” Kersey explained. His secret to forming an independent opinion? “Stay informed, look at things without bias, and get info from multiple sources.” His three words: Independence. Open-mindedness. Critical.
Both students admitted they were surprised but thrilled when they heard their names called. Scott found out in her car with a dead battery, while Kersey said the moment gave him an unexpected rush of pride.
Drapak said, “It was a really great experience to learn more about local organizations like the Bradenton Rotary Club and take some time to appreciated the constitution. Everyone was super kind was was really impressed with our essays.