OHS announces winners from Stark reading contest

The Nelda C. and H.J. Lutcher Stark Foundation congratulates the students of Orangefield High School that participated in the Miriam Lutcher Stark Contest in Reading and Declamation.

On Thursday, Feb. 16, students took part in the local level contest at the Orangefield Elementary campus.

In declamation, Haley Permenter took first place with Declaration of Conscience by Margaret Chase Smith, and in interpretive reading, Kirsten Wofford won first place with her interpretation of Katherine Mansfield's The Singing Lesson.

Second place went to Kirby Clayton and Kathryn Petry in declamation and interpretive reading, respectively, and they receive $1,500 in scholarships for their efforts. In addition, all participating students received a certificate for competing in the contest from Orangefield High School principle Shaun McAlpine. The two first place winners, Permenter and Wofford receive $2,000 in scholarships and will go on to compete in the County Final contest at the Lutcher Theater on April 29.

The aim of the Stark Reading Contest is to enhance the literary and forensic quality and skills of the students. The Contest has continued annually since its inception in 1904 and offers educational opportunities and experiences for students at Orange County public schools.

The Miriam Lutcher Stark Contest in Reading and Declamation is sponsored by the Nelda C. and H.J. Lutcher Stark Foundation as part of its continuing mission to enrich the community and encourage education.