Collyns Stout, a 5th grader from St. Rose of Lima School, Crofton, wrote what she loves about her mom.
Her essay, “What my Mother Means to Me” was one of the top 10 essays in the state of Nebraska in a contest held by the American Mothers Inc.® (AMI).
St. Rose and Crofton Elementary have participated in this national contest in the past with many finalist going to Lincoln. AMI is a non-profit organization dedicated to programs that teach, support, and honor mothers, empowering them to positively impact their families and communities.
Stout is the daughter of Nick and Aliza Stout of Crofton.
Collyns, along with the other finalists from across the state were present at an AMI Recognition Ceremony at the State Capitol in Lincoln on Thursday, April 7th.
The 10 finalist read their essays aloud to their mothers and a group including the new 2022 Nebraska Mother of the Year, Kim Vogt of Creighton.
Governor Pete Ricketts attended and spoke at the ceremony. The Nebraska first place winning essay was sent to Washington DC where it was entered in the National competition.
Sue Venteicher, Nebraska’s AMI Association president commented; “This contest is a wonderful way for a child to honor their mother in a way that they may never have before”.
Participants in the American Mother’s essay Contest were required to write a 150-word essay titled “What My Mother Means to Me.” The contest is open to all 5th graders in the state. College seniors majoring in Education and Language Arts juried the essays and chose the winner.
“The essays are truly from the heart” Joyce Stevens, AMI national president said. She hopes that the contest continues to grow so that every Nebraska 5th grader has a chance to take part.