Eisenhower High Student Earns Recognition for Writing Skills

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Yeraldin Pineda, a senior at Eisenhower High School, placed third in a national essay contest sponsored by the Fleet Reserve Association (FRA) during the summer. Pineda also entered a national poetry contest and has been informed that her poem has been selected for publication.

The Americanism Essay Contest is open to students in grades 7-12. Pineda advanced the national FRA Essay Contest after winning first place at the state level with her 350-word essay about the topic “What My Vote Means to Me.” At the national event, she competed against other state winners. For taking third place in the national competition, she received a plaque, a “Certificate of Recognition,” and a check for $1,000.

Below is an excerpt from her essay:

When I turn eighteen, I will be given the right and the power that comes with voting, but I must remember to use this new power to make a positive difference in society…It (my vote) also means that I have looked into issues that may not affect me personally, but may affect the people around me. This means that I have to explore issues, which deal with the future of my country and the world…I have to stay up to date with issues that may originate in small towns but could have a ripple effect where I live. It will be my responsibility to follow my local government and the actions of my congressmen to make sure that they are doing their job properly and effectively.

Last fall, English teacher Sandi Capps submitted one of Pineda’s poems entitled “Love Is Like Death” for The America Library of Poetry 2013 Student Poetry Contest. Division Winners and the Winner of the “Editor’s Choice” Award will be notified after Sept. 30. Pineda has been notified that her poem will be published in a book of student poetry entitled “Discovered,” which is scheduled for release in the fall. The book will feature a very select cross-section of this year’s submissions.

Pictured above (l-r) are Sandi Capps, Principal Ben Ibarra and Yeraldin Pineda.