by Maxim Varshavsky, 6th grade

...I took a photo of a dolphin on a boat. I named it “The Free Dolphin”. Commercial fishing is the reason why we lose a lot of dolphins to bycatch. This is a lucky dolphin, alive and well, trusting people and playing with them. Unfortunately, in the future, you might not even see dolphins around! But there is hope! That hope is that many people are discovering the truth about commercial fishing. Though you can't save the world this minute, do what you can to help save it in the future.

Award of Merit

by Morgan Mayeda, 8th grade

A sunset paints a scene so grand, colors ablaze, like hope’s gentle hand. When things are ending, a new beginning always awaits.The horizon ignites, hope ignites within us, guiding us through life’s maze. For in the beauty of a sunset, we find solace and peace, a reminder that hope never fades, loss only finds release. With every stroke of orange and pink, hope takes flight, casting away the night. For in the darkest moments, hope will always ride, guiding freedom by lighting up the skies. As the day bids farewell, a new chapter begins.            

Honorable Mention

by Jenson Finn, 6th grade

I am hopeful I can make my dreams come true because I live in a country where I have the freedom to be whatever I want and do the things I want to do.

Honorable Mention

by Jenson Finn, 6th grade

I am hopeful that one day I will get to be a man on the moon because there are so many new advancements in space travel that will allow me to see the moon up close and personal.