2013 What Makes a Great Teacher Winners

Students ages (14-19 yrs old) were asked to write an essay (500 words or less, title will not be included in word total) on their opinion of what makes a great teacher.  Energize Students received entries that described what students are looking for in a great teacher that helps to motivate them to excel in school and personal life.  If students could have their dream teacher in high school, what characteristics go above and beyond an average teacher? We want teachers to read these essays so they can make efforts to improve their teaching skills and really hear what students need.

Congratulations to the 2013 "What Makes a Great Teacher" contest winners!

1st Place = Briana S. from WI (Read Essay)

2nd Place = Jesse A. from IL (Read Essay)

3rd Place = Erica L. from PA (Read Essay)

2012 Why My School ROCKS Winners

Students (14-19 yrs old) were asked to choose from one of five hot topics that we've gathered over the years from our "Your Point of View" student contests. Students wrote essays based on one of the hot topics above, and told us what successful program is currently working in their school that makes their high school experience more valuable to them. A short video synopsis of each essay accompanied all submissions.

There were so many compelling and creative entries portraying a genuine concern and providing a successful program currently working in their school that is helping to combat an educational issue. We hope you enjoy and remember that students have the power to make real positive change!

TOPICS:
* Lack of career-related courses
* Bullying / Meanness
* Lack of curriculum
* Use of technology in schools
* Lack of college preparation

1st Place = Nga N. from OR (read essay)
Topic: Bullying / Meanness
 


2nd Place = Edith G. from TX (read essay)
Topic: Lack of Curriculum or Career Related Courses


3rd Place = Hayley H. from AL (read essay)
Topic: Use of Technology in Schools


Contest Winners

Energize Students' Contest Winners