Eleven MMI students receive Scholastic Writing Awards
(Freeland, PA – February 14, 2018) – Eleven MMI Preparatory School students were recipients of 2018 Scholastic Writing Awards in the Northeast Writing Region-at-Large division. The Scholastic Art & Writing Awards are the nation’s longest-running and most prestigious recognition program for creative teens in grades 7–12.
Senior Lauren Babinetz, the daughter of Michael and Patricia Babinetz of Jim Thorpe, received a Gold Key for her critical essay “Whistleblowers – The Only Way to Know” and will advance to the national competition. Regional Gold Key work is currently being considered for national recognition in New York City and national medalists will be announced on March 13.
Junior Daniel DeMelfi, the son of Daniel and Esme DeMelfi of Hazleton, was awarded a Silver Key for his poem “The Man.” Sophomore Alexander Jordan, the son of Robert and Teresa Jordan of Drums, won a Silver Key for his short story “The Crow.” Junior Christine Park, the daughter of Jae and Young Park of Hazle Township, received a Silver Key for her poem “365.”
Honorable Mention recipients are: junior Elizabeth Borchick, the daughter of Lance and Cynthia Borchick of Drums, for her journalism piece “Be a Hero;” senior Lauren Freeman, the daughter of Marisa Freeman of Freeland, for her personal essay and memoir “Legacy;” junior Alexander Kline, the son of Dr. Gerard and Cathy Kline of Mountaintop, for his poem “The Pianist;” junior Morgan Long, the son of David and Theresa Long of Mountaintop, for his critical essay “NFL Kneeling;” senior Caelyn McGran, the daughter of John and Barbara McGran of Drums, for her critical essay “Femininity Through the Years;” sophomore Kai Mele, the son of Michael and Laurie Mele of Jim Thorpe, for his science fiction and fantasy piece “Oscar The Betrayed,” and sophomore Adam Tron, the son of Dr. Eduardo Tron and Dr. Graciela Bianco of Mountaintop, for his critical essay “The Fight for Independence.” Mrs. Jennifer Novotney is the school advisor for this program.
The Scholastic Art & Writing Awards are presented by the Alliance for Young Artists & Writers. The Alliance is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization whose mission is to identify students with exceptional artistic and literary talent and present their remarkable work to the world through the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards. Through the Awards, students receive opportunities for recognition, exhibition, publication, and scholarships. Students across America submitted more than 330,000 original works last year in 29 different categories of art and writing.
Pictured are, first row from left: Jennifer Novotney, advisor; Caelyn McGran; Elizabeth Borchick; Lauren Freeman; Christine Park, and Lauren Babinetz. Second row: Adam Tron, Alexander Jordan, Kai Mele, Daniel DeMelfi, Alexander Kline, and Morgan Long.
About MMI Preparatory School
For 138 years, MMI Preparatory School has been providing dedicated area students with a comprehensive and inspiring 6th through 12th grade college preparatory program that maximizes each individual’s academic, social and character potential in preparation for success in college and beyond. The school is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools Commissions on Elementary and Secondary Schools (MSA-CESS). MMI is a school where every student can reach their full potential: academically, ethically and socially. For more information about MMI Preparatory School, visit www.mmiprep.org or call 570-636-1108.