Students Honored for Taking a Stand Against Youth Violence
The “Do the Write Thing Challenge” is an anti-violence and academic program for seventh and eighth-grade students. These students are charged with digging deep into the issues surrounding youth violence and are encouraged to write about their thoughts and ideas, providing solutions to help decrease violence in their community.
This year, Klein ISD had four intermediate schools participate in the challenge and two Ambassadors were chosen from each of those schools: Claire McMullin and James Lee from Kleb, Taniya Williams and George Walker Hammons from Krimmel, Mikaela Celicious and Larson rank from Schindewolf and Ricky Pagnozzi and Abigail Rock from Ulrich.
Walker Hammons, an eighth-grader at Krimmel Intermediate, not only accepted the challenge but was selected as one of two national finalists from the entire Houston area. As a national student finalist, Walker read his essay to the attendants of the 2018 Do the Write Thing Recognition ceremony held at the NRG Stadium on Sunday, May 20th. In addition, Walker will also attend the 2018 DTWT National Campaign to Stop Violence event in Washington, D.C. in July. Here is what Walker had to say about his recognition: “It is an honor to receive this great award. I hope my writing will impact the lives of everyone affected by violence. Do the Write Thing is a wonderful program for the youth of today. We all need to come together to make change happen. I am excited to go to Washington D.C., meet the other national finalists, and discuss ways to end violence.”
Walker’s English teacher, Holly Walsh, is a caring support to her students. When asked about DTWT and Walker’s recognition, she stated, “I have had my ELA students participate in the Do the Write Thing Challenge for many years because of the multiple benefits it provides. As my students begin the writing process, we discuss how violence affects their lives, the causes of violence, and what we can do to stop it. Through these discussions, we share personal experiences, and our class becomes a trusting family. I am so proud of Walker Hammons for being selected as a National Finalist. He is such a kind hearted young man who always looks out for the well-being of others. Walker chose to focus his paper on cyber bullying, a topic that is so relevant to today’s youth. This is such an incredible recognition for Walker, and I know he will have a wonderful time in Washington D.C. when we attend the national ceremony.”
As true P2P Investors, Ms. Walsh and these student are catalysts for change and are doing their part to end youth violence in our community.
Best Public Schools in Texas
Klein ISD has an established 84-year history of excellence and innovation in education with unique pathways for EVERY student in our care to ensure learners are college, career, military, and life ready. With recognition for STEM, athletics, fine arts, and academics from highly-esteemed organizations, it is clear that Our Shared Vision of every student entering with a promise and exiting with a purpose is a reality for EVERY student who walks through our doors.
About Klein ISD
Klein ISD is a school district in Klein, Texas, located in northwestern Harris County. The district spans approximately 88 square miles and serves more than 53,000 students in 33 elementary schools, 10 intermediate campuses, one high school program of choice, and 5 high schools.
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There are so many incredible individuals in the Klein Family making a lasting impact on our community. We want to recognize and celebrate our leaders and learners that are cultivating talent, building relationships, reimagining learning and making Promise2Purpose a reality daily. Share your story here: https://kleinfamily.net
