April 27, 2025 – In celebration of National Tell A Story Day, the Department of Communications and the Division of Literacy hosted their second annual short story contest. Fourth and fifth grade students from across the district submitted imaginative tales filled with compelling characters and exciting plots.
Each entry was required to be 1,000 words or fewer and include the essential elements of narrative writing: a plot, setting, character, and theme. Students were encouraged to think creatively and let their imaginations transport readers to new worlds!
The Communications and Literacy teams were thrilled by the number of exceptional submissions. Every story stood out in its own unique way, showcasing the creativity and talent of our CCS writers. After carefully evaluating each piece using a rubric developed by the Division of Literacy, the judging is complete—and we’re proud to announce the winners of the First Draft: Emerging Writers Competition!
But before we reveal the results, we want to extend our heartfelt thanks to every student who entered the contest and to the teachers who supported them along the way. To celebrate all participants, we’ve created a special e-book featuring every story submitted. Click here to read all the submissions, including the winning submissions, for the First Draft: Emerging Writer's Competition.
Congratulations to our top writers!
4th Grade Grand Champion
Renae Hughes from Parkmoor earned a PLATINUM achievement and an average score of 11.6!
Read “The Sun and Clouds” here.
4th Grade Runner-Up
Sofia Cartagena Mojica from Liberty came in second place out of all 4th grade entries, earning a PLATINUM achievement and an average score of 11.45!
Read the “A New Middle School” story here.
5th Grade Grand Champion
Margaret Schroeder from Clinton earned a PLATINUM achievement with a PERFECT score, receiving a 12 from all adjudicators!
Read “The Swashbuckling Gorillas” here.
5th Grade Runner-Up
Gabriel Rohr-Smith from Clinton came in second place out of all 5th grade entries, earning a PLATINUM achievement and an average score of 11.2!
Read the “Cheeks the Squirrel and the Revenge of the Dragon” story here.
