National Council of Teachers of English
Recognizes Eighth Graders as Outstanding Writers

The National Council of Teachers of English Promising Young Writers Program recognizes two Pine-Richland Middle School students as Outstanding Writers in 2008.

They include: Branden Glass and Jonathan Marks. Other runners up for recognition include: PRMS eighth graders Annaliese Milano and Rachel Baur.

Last fall, students in Dr. Susan Frantz's Pre-AP English class entered their best writing along with an impromptu essay.  NCTE notified the students of their recognition by the state organization in May.  Their names will be published in a book recognizing other national winners as outstanding writers.

The middle school language arts program emphasizes writing for varied audiences and purposes. 

“We are proud of our young people and their ability to address issues of relevance in the world around them,” Dr. Susan Frantz said. “Being honored is simply an added benefit to the communication skills they have perfected, during the course of their middle level education.  There is no doubt in our minds that they will continue to impact others with the power of the pen."

Both state honorees have been recognized for their outstanding writing this year by other organizations.

The Masons honored Marks as its winner in the "What My Family Means to Me" Essay Contest in February at a banquet.  His artwork received an honorable mention by the PA Poetry Society as well.

Glass has been honored as national winner of the Daughters of American Revolution essay competition,

DeMolay winner of "What Is Right with America" oratorical competition, winner of NexTier Bank's Essay Competition, "Why Saving Money Is Important".

Glass’ writing has been published in several national and local literary publications.