✍️Lilly Lopez of Destin Middle School won first place in the America 250 history writing contest.
✍️ Aisha Ramirez of Pryor Middle School earned second place for her essay on the Declaration of Independence.
🏛️ Winning essays will be displayed on July 4 at the Heritage Museum of Northwest Florida.
Two Okaloosa County middle school students have earned top honors in a history writing contest celebrating America’s upcoming 250th birthday.
The Okaloosa County School District announced June 1 that Lilly Lopez of Destin Middle School won first place and Aisha Ramirez of Pryor Middle School earned second place in the Plank Schlitt Middle School United States History Writing Contest.
The contest is part of the Heritage Museum of Northwest Florida’s America 250 celebration, which commemorates the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
Students were asked to examine the lasting significance of the Declaration of Independence and explain how its principles continue to influence life in the United States today.
School district officials praised both students for their strong historical research, writing skills, and creativity.
“We are incredibly proud of Lilly and Aisha for this outstanding achievement,” Superintendent Marcus Chambers said in a statement. “Their hard work, thoughtful writing, and passion for history reflect the excellence we see in our students across Okaloosa County.”
Destin Middle School Principal Mandy Lopez said Lilly’s success highlights the work taking place in classrooms across the school.
“At DMS, we are proud to develop students who can think critically, write with purpose, and communicate their ideas effectively,” Lopez said. “And while I’m incredibly proud as principal, it is a little more special that I also get to be her mom.”
Pryor Middle School Principal Jason McClelland also commended Aisha Ramirez for her achievement.
“Aisha’s dedication and creativity demonstrate the bright future ahead for our students,” McClelland said. “We are proud of her for using her voice and talents to honor our nation’s history.”
The Plank Schlitt contest is named after two longtime Okaloosa County history teachers who continued supporting the Heritage Museum of Northwest Florida after retiring from Niceville High School.
Community members will have an opportunity to read the winning essays when they are featured in the Heritage Museum’s “Celebrate America 250! The Revolution” exhibit on July 4. The exhibit opens at 11 a.m. as part of the museum’s Independence Day celebration.
District leaders said the recognition highlights the importance of encouraging students to engage with American history while developing critical thinking and writing skills.
