2009 Dr. King Essay Contest Winners

In recognition and honor of the birthday of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., WAVY TV and KIDTALK conducted the KIDTALK 2009 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Essay Contest.  It was a way for the young people of Hampton Roads to continue to find meaning and relevance in the legacy of Dr. King.

Winners appeared on the January 17th episode of KidTalk to read from their essays and participate in a show focusing on the work of Dr. King. 

The theme of the submitted essays was "Dr. King's Dream Realized?"  As the United States prepared for the inauguration of President Elect Barack Obama, students were asked to write a 500-word or less essay on whether they felt the nation was moving toward or away from Dr. King's dream?  Students were instructed to demonstrate familiarity with Dr. King's work.  They also needed to demonstrate an understanding of what Dr. King valued and preached, and to discuss the impact of the recent election on the future of Dr. King's dream. 

Entrants were divided into three categories -
4th - 5th Graders
6th - 8th Graders
9th - 12th graders

A 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place were awarded in each category.

The winners are:

4th - 5th Graders -
1st Place - Jayla Harris, Virginia Beach, New Castle Elementary
2nd Place - Sarah Graessle, Virginia Beach, Parkway Elementary
3rd Place - Janeen Wheaton, Virginia Beach, Parkway Elementary

6th - 8th Graders -
1st Place - Hailey Jordan, Norfolk, Ruffner Academy
2nd Place - Joel Caffey, Norfolk, Ruffner Academy
3rd Place - Tahtiana Hardy, Newport News, Huntington Middle School

9th - 12th Graders -
1st Place - Kerri Tracy, Quinby, Nandua High
2nd Place - Caleigh Simpkins, Onancock, Nandua High
3rd Place - Reba Turner, Onancock, Nandua High

Photos of all the winners are available in the slideshow above.