We made some significant changes to our awards ceremony this year. Instead of a restaurant banquet, we held the ceremony at National University in Pleasant Hill. This gave us the flexibility to make some of the changes that students and parents have been asking for.

We shortened the program, eliminated the keynote speaker, and just concentrated on celebrating the winners.

We gave a few of our judges a chance to talk about what they liked and ways the students can improve their writing. This session also gave the students a chance to ask questions – something we want to allow more time for next year.

Like last year, we asked the students to read from their pieces. This feature is popular with everyone.

A slideshow highlighted the winners with quotes from their stories and poems. Our judges were excited, too – they decorated the room with balloons, stars, and colorful table cloths.