Kindergartener Wins State Essay Contest

Pictured from left: Dino Figaretti (WV State Treasury Office local government specialist), Megan Roberts (Ryker’s mother), Ryker Roberts, Cindy McCutcheon (Hilltop Elementary principal) and Tim Hooper (WV State Treasury Office local government specialist).

Hilltop Elementary kindergarten student Ryker Roberts won the 16^th annual SMART529 “When I Grow Up” essay contest in the K-1 age group in Region V.

The SMART529 “When I Grow Up” essay contest encouraged students to submit, in 100 words or fewer, an essay that explained what career they want to have when they get older. Entries were judged on originality, creativity and the importance of post-secondary education.

Each of the SMART529 “When I Grow Up” essay contest entries were judged among five regions in three elementary school age groups (K-1, 2-3, 4-5), making for a total of 15 regional winners.

Roberts was awarded $500, which was invested into a SMART529 college savings account, for his essay about owning a local grocery store, Mega Mart, when he is older. Hilltop Elementary School also received a $500 check in Roberts’ honor. One of the regional winners will be the state’s grand prize winner. That student will be chosen randomly during an awards ceremony in September at the West Virginia Culture Center and State Museum in Charleston and will be given a total of $5,000 in SMART529 scholarship money.

Below is the award-winning essay written by Ryker Roberts:

When I grow up, I want to be a grocery store owner because I think that would be a fun job! I will name it Mega Mart. It will be really big! A garden will be attached to my store. I will sell fresh fruits and vegetables. I will have a toy section for kids and coffee for grown-ups. It will have a gas station and car deliveries too. My community will have healthy food and a fun place to shop. I am excited to organize the shelves and hire many employees! I cannot wait to own a grocery store!

Posted in SchoolNews, SchoolNews-HIL