ANNISTON, AL — The voices of Anniston’s young thinkers took center stage on Friday, May 16th, during the Anniston Write-a-Thon awards ceremony, recognizing students in grades 9 through 11 for their original essays on the prompt: “What is a program that would improve Anniston?” The Calhoun Journal was proud to serve as both sponsor and judge for the event, which celebrated creativity, critical thinking, and civic-mindedness.
The event honored the top four winners and all seven participants, each of whom submitted independently written entries. The students completed their work on their own time, and all submissions were judged anonymously to ensure fairness.
Write-a-Thon Winners:
1st Place: Jaydin Coleman (Freshman)
2nd Place: Asia Arnold (Junior)
3rd Place: Marli Glass (Sophomore)
4th Place: Abbiegail Christopher (Junior)
Although some winners were unable to attend due to other school activities, the ceremony proceeded with recognition for all participants. Each student who entered will receive a small participation prize in addition to certificates for the top four.
Support for the Write-a-Thon came from a range of community sponsors, including:
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Calhoun Journal
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Romarin et Corbeux
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Anniston Walk-In Weaves
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BTJ
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New Life Equine of Anniston
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Old Noble
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Junior League of Anniston
The awards were presented as part of a larger underclassmen recognition event, which also included the presentation of the Senator’s Leadership Academy awards. Superintendent Dr. Hill and State Senator Keith Kelley were both in attendance for the earlier portion of the ceremony.
Coach Braxton Mason and 9th grade counselor Jemeka Blackmon assisted with handing out certificates during the event. While Blackmon was not directly involved with the Write-a-Thon, she remained to support and celebrate the students.
The Calhoun Journal congratulates all the participants for their thoughtful ideas and commitment to their community. Their work highlights the potential of Anniston’s youth to help shape a better future.
