Heights Middle Schoolers Excel at Writing Competition

When it comes to creative writing, CH-UH’s middle school students showed their mettle and skill recently by posting several high marks at the annual Power of the Pen competition.  Power of the Pen (POP) is a statewide competition that tests students’ creativity and writing skills through team and individual writing exercises.

The recent POP District competition took place on December 11 at Monticello Middle School. Our students competed against each other and students from nearby districts.

Among CH-UH middle schools, Monticello had three 8th grade students place in the top 15: Sezny Watkins, 3rd Place; Taylor Tamang, 6th Place; and Kyra Germany, 10th Place. The Monticello 8th grade team placed 1st Overall! The Monticello 8th grade team is coached by Deborah Frost (Monticello MSSP teacher) and the 7th grade team by Marian Kopp (Monticello 6th grade teacher).

Roxboro Middle School had three 7th grade students place in the top 15: Naomi Marsh, 1st Place; Taylor Jones, 2nd Place; and Emma Schubert, 14th Place.  The Roxboro 7th grade team placed 2nd overall.  They also had two 8th grade students place in the top 15: Celia van den Bogert, 4th Place; and Olivia Webster, 11th Place.  Both of Roxboro’s teams are coached by Caitlyn McGrath (6th grade teacher at Roxboro).

Wiley Middle School had three 7th grade students place in the top 15: Ryan Wilson, 8th Place; Aviva Klein, 12th Place; and Kelly Moore, 15th Place.  Wiley’s 7th grade team placed 1st Overall!  Wiley had one 8th grade student place in the top 15: Ann Zicarli, 8th Place.  The 8th grade team placed 4th overall.  Wiley’s 7th grade team is coached by Melanie Lesar and the 8th grade team by Ashley Newman.

Qualifying students from this District tournament will compete next at the Regional Tournament in April. 

“This was a great competition that really showed the strong writing skills of some of our students,” Monticello Principal Brian Sharosky said.  “It was a perfect example of what great things are going on in our District. We received countless compliments of our building and the enthusiastic support we received from PTA, parents, administration, and the Board of Education.”

Special thanks to Debbie Frost for all of her hard work in organizing the day.