Jennings Randolph Elementary School student honored

ELKINS -- Jennings Randolph Elementary School fourth-grade student Corrina Burkhart was honored for being one of 15 elementary students in West Virginia to win the SMART592 "When I Grow Up" essay contest.

A presentation took place Monday during a school assembly attended by students, staff and special guest Mark Harrison from the West Virginia State Treasurer's Office. Burkart's winning essay expressed her aspiration to become an entomologist, which is a scientist who studies insects.

"We are so proud of Corrina," Jennings Randolph Principal Kelly Thompson said. "Winning this award is such a great honor and accomplishment. Corrina is a kind and hard-working young lady and a great student."

Burkhart received a $500 deposit into a SMART529 college savings account, which is a program administered by the West Virginia State Treasurer's Office to encourage early saving for higher education. Jennings Randolph also received a $500 cash prize to support educational programs.

Last year more than 3,300 students throughout West Virginia participated in the contest, which is for students kindergarten through the fifth grade. Essays are judged among five regions in three age groups making for a total of 15 regional winners. Burkart competed in Region III, which is the Clarksburg/Weston area.

Students are asked to submit, in 200 words or less, an essay of what they want to be when they grow up. Entries were judged on originality, creativity, and the importance of post-secondary education.

Out of the 15 regional winners, one student will receive a grand prize of $5,000 that will go toward a SMART29 account. The winner will randomly be selected and will be honored during an awards ceremony at the State Culture Center in Charleston this fall.

Burkhart's fourth-grade teacher at Jennings Randolph Elementary School is Julie Nestor. She is the daughter of John and Aira Burkhart.