Students honor MLK Jr. through writing

 

 

 

 

 

Three Springfield Public Schools students won the 2026 MLK Essay Contest hosted by SPS in partnership with the Springfield NAACP to highlight the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

6th Grade Winner-Ariana Gavel, Carver Middle School

7th Grade Winner- Gabrielle Diamond, Pershing Middle School

8th Grade Winner- Sabrina Aldrich, Carver Middle School

The theme of the essay contest was “Creating A Beloved Community.”  Essays were judged by the NAACP Springfield Executive Committee, based on creativity, clarity and adherence to the theme. The winners were announced during the Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration at the Gillioz Theater on Monday, Jan. 19.

SPS students and staff were also active in other aspects of the celebration by walking in the MLK march and participating in the Springfield Multicultural Festival.