Mission Secondary student Kayla Schuurmans' essay "Optimism should be a priority" earned her top spot in a local essay contest.
"She put a lot of heart and effort into her essay," said Kathleen MacKillop, the school liaison for the Mission Optimist Club.
The 17-year-old's entry will be forwarded to the Optimist International Essay Contest later this year. The winner of that competition, which will be selected later this summer, will receive a $2,500 scholarship.
"We wish her luck," said MacKillop.
The local Optimist Club is now accepting entries for the Optimist International Oratorical contest. Any student under the age of 19 who has not yet graduated high school is eligible to compete in this public speaking event. The local competition is expected to be held on March 24. Successful speakers will compete again at a regional competition before qualifying for the finals in Portland.
Students interested in participating in the oratorical contest can get more information by emailing MacKillop at kxx2@telus.net.
All students in Mission are also encouraged to nominate their mom for the Optimist Club's Mother's Day contest. Submit an essay explaining why your mother is the best and you could win $1,000 for your school PAC. Email MacKillop for more details.