Mason Middle School Students Win Statewide Writing Award
Five Mason Middle School (MMS) 8th graders were honored for their submissions to the Growing Libraries with Representation project. This project was presented by the Aspiring Educators of Michigan (AEM), a group supported by the Michigan Education Association to help future teachers. Congratulations to the winners, Mckelvy Brown, Miriam Omans, Sophia Le, Hayven Jayne and Maria Sutberry!
“This award means that people care and that they are willing to read and listen to me and it lets me know I should keep writing,” said Le.
The Growing Libraries with Representation project asked students to look closely at their school or classroom library. They had to think about what kinds of voices, stories, or authors were missing—and then write about it.
“It’s really important that they see themselves in books,” said Laura Lewis, MMS teacher English Language Arts teacher. “"Everyone's voice is important, no matter what the topic is."
More than 150 Mason students took part. They completed surveys, wrote letters, and shared personal stories. Five students were chosen for their powerful ideas and strong writing. The project helped students think deeply about why representation in books matters.
“This award means that I can grow up and become a writer, which is something I’ve been really passionate about since I was little, said Jayne.
Each winner received a gift card to Bestsellers Books & Coffee Co. and copies of the books they recommended. Their work will also be featured in an upcoming issue of MEA Voice magazine.
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