Annually, the Valdosta-Lowndes County Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemoration Association organizes a poem and poster contest inviting local students to express their admiration and respect for Dr. King's legacy. Each elementary and middle school was requested to submit two poems and two posters, while the high school was encouraged to submit four of each. A panel of judges from the local association carefully evaluated the entries, and on January 15, 2024, during the MLK Youth Showcase, winners were announced, receiving both monetary prizes and certificates.
Valdosta City Schools actively participated, with seven schools contributing a total of 29 entries. Among these, 14 VCS students secured first, second, or third place, and one student received an honorable mention. The outstanding achievements of these students were acknowledged by the Valdosta Board of Education during their January Work Session on Tuesday, January 23, 2024, held at Valdosta High School.
Each of the award winner's poem/posters are below:
Poetry: Grades K-5 | ||
|---|---|---|
1st Place - Ansley Thomas | 2nd Place - Lilan Whittaker | 3rd Place - Ava Motes |
Poetry: Grades 6-8 | ||
1st Place - | ||
Poetry: Grades 9-12 | ||
1st Place - | 2nd Place - | 3rd Place - Jasmine Davis |
| ||
Posters: Grades K - 5 | ||
1st Place - | 2nd Place - | 3rd Place - |
Posters: Grades 6-8 | ||
1st Place - Kalan Hose | 2nd Place - | |
Poster: Grades 9-12 | ||
2nd Place - Ariana Mitchell | Honorable Mention - Yazmine Brown | |
