BELLE, W.Va. (WVDN) – State Treasurer Larry Pack on Wednesday presented a $500 check to Belle Elementary School in Kanawha County for having one of the 15 regional winners of the SMART529 “When I Grow Up” Statewide Essay Contest.
“My Office is thrilled to deliver this money which recognizes schools who encourage their families to think about their child’s future education and offer a savings strategy to support it,” Treasurer Pack said. “As a father of six children, I know the importance of saving for college. These 15 regional winners took the time to think about what they want to do and who they want to be when they grow up. I congratulate these students for sharing their aspirations. My hope is this writing contest inspired them to achieve their dreams and eventually become the future leaders of our state.”
Treasurer Pack on Wednesday afternoon presented $500 to Belle Elementary School. The winning student from that school is Charleigh Riley, a 5th grade student, who wrote about becoming a fashion designer.
“We’re excited to receive this check, and we are blessed that we have such great writers here,” said Belle Elementary School Principal Linda Burke. “Charleigh is an amazing student. She’s a patrol and part of our leadership team. She’s very friendly and helpful to students who need extra support in our school.”
The essay contest allows students to submit, in 200 words or less, an essay that explains what they want to be when they grow up. Entries were judged on originality, creativity and the importance of post-secondary education. Kindergarten through fifth grade teachers also had the opportunity to compete in the teacher portion of the essay contest.
Each regional winner received $500 to be invested into a SMART529 account during an awards banquet in Charleston in March. Each regional winner’s school was awarded a $500 cash prize to support school programs.
SMART529 is a qualified tuition program issued by the Board of Trustees of the West Virginia College and Jumpstart Savings Programs and administered by Hartford Funds. Complete information about SMART529 plans and investment options is available at www.SMART529.com.
