Winners of 5th Grade America250 Essay Contest Announced
Published on June 01, 2026
Fifth-grade students recognized for reflections on America’s past, present and future
In celebration of America’s upcoming 250th birthday in 2026, the City of Glendale Office of Arts & Culture proudly announces the winners of the district-wide America250 Essay Contest for local fifth-grade students.
The contest invited students from across Glendale school districts to reflect on the nation’s history, values, and future as the United States approaches its semiquincentennial anniversary.
“Reading these essays has been a wonderful reminder that one of America’s greatest strengths is the freedom to share our stories, perspectives, and visions for the future. As we celebrate 250 years of our nation, we are proud to uplift the voices of Glendale’s students, the next generation of thinkers, leaders, and community builders,” said Holly Garner, Glendale Arts & Culture Coordinator.
More than 50 essays were submitted by fifth-grade students across Glendale, showcasing creativity, civic pride and optimism for the future.
The City of Glendale congratulates the following district winners:
Cholla District Winner — Ava Donnelly, Dream City Christian School
Barrel District Winner — Aliyana Johnson, Sahuaro Ranch Elementary
Cactus District Winner — Atoosa Khairy, Horizon Elementary
Ocotillo District Winner — Eli Lewis, William C. Jack Elementary
Sahuaro District Winner — Shiloh Perrin, Marshall Ranch Elementary
Yucca District Winner — Keziah Ateh, Desert Spirit School
City-wide Winner – Aliyana Johnson, Sahuaro Ranch Elementary
District winners will receive a commemorative certificate signed by their respective district councilmembers and a $25 gift card. The city-wide grand prize winner will receive a commemorative certificate signed by the mayor, a $50 gift card, a family four-pack to Andretti Indoor Karting & Games, and the opportunity to read their essay during the Downtown Glendale America250 Celebration.
“After reading these essays, I can confidently say our country is in good hands with this next generation,” said Glendale Mayor Jerry P. Weiers. “As we prepare to celebrate this historic milestone in our nation’s history, it was inspiring to read what being an American means through the eyes of our young people.”
Mayor Weiers continued, “Their patriotism, gratitude, and love for this country filled my heart with pride and hope for America’s future. I was truly honored to read these remarkable essays and narrowing it down to just one winner was incredibly difficult, because every student should be proud of what they wrote.”
The America250 Essay Contest is part of Glendale’s ongoing efforts to engage residents of all ages in commemorating the nation’s 250th anniversary through arts, culture, education and community celebration.
For more information about the contest or Glendale’s America250 activities, please contact the City of Glendale Office of Arts & Culture at publicart@glendaleaz.com.