Towson, MD – The Eastern Shore was proudly represented at the annual State of Maryland Literacy Association (SoMLA) Young Authors’ Contest Awards Ceremony, where student writers from across Maryland gathered to celebrate excellence in writing. Held before a full ballroom of students, educators, and families, the event highlighted the remarkable talent of young authors from across the Old Line State.

Photo Courtesy of North Salisbury Elementary:
North Salisbury Elementary proudly celebrates two outstanding young authors! Congratulations to Nyah Hamilton (Grade 3), Maryland State Champion in Short Story, and Jackson Webster (Grade 3), Maryland State Champion in Poetry. Both students were recognized at the Maryland State Literacy Association ceremony in Towson and are pictured here with Principal Ms. Kimberly Pinhey.

The Eastern Shore Chapter was represented by 11 student finalists, each having previously earned top honors in their respective local contests. Their continued success at the state level reflects the strength of literacy instruction and the dedication of educators across the region.

This year’s ceremony featured children’s author Erin Yun, best known for her Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) middle-grade series centered on Pippa Park, including Pippa Park Raises Her Game and Pippa Park Crush at First Sight. Her message encouraged students to embrace their identities, find their voice through writing, and continue developing their craft.

“Each year, we continue to be blessed with the opportunity to support and celebrate such talented student writers,” said Dr. Brian Cook, SoMLA Young Authors’ Chair. “The growth of our local contests has strengthened the quality of writing across the Eastern Shore, and it is evident in the increasing success of our students at the state level.”

Dr. Cook noted that the Eastern Shore’s 11 state place winners represent the highest number of award recipients the chapter has achieved in a single year. He also emphasized the critical role of families and educators in supporting student success.

“I am deeply appreciative of our parents and dedicated teachers who invest their time and energy into developing student writers,” he added. “Writing is challenging work, but the increased emphasis on strong writing instruction across our schools continues to yield outstanding results.”

Each award recipient received a custom laser-cut recognition piece, designed and produced by students at the Worcester Technical High School Laser Technology Shop, further showcasing the region’s commitment to student excellence and innovation.

Eastern Shore State Winners:

• Grade 1, Poetry, 2nd Place – Lainie Booth, Worcester Preparatory
• Grade 2, Short Story, 2nd Place – Evelyn Justice, Ocean City Elementary
• Grade 3, Poetry, 1st Place – Jackson Webster, North Salisbury Elementary
• Grade 3, Short Story, 1st Place – Nyah Hamilton, North Salisbury Elementary
• Grade 7, Short Story, 1st Place – Serena Jaoude, Worcester Preparatory
• Grade 9, Poetry, 1st Place – Kiera Keaney, James M. Bennett High
• Grade 10, Poetry, 1st Place – Jacob Culver, Snow Hill High
• Grade 10, Short Story, 1st Place – Minsuk Kim, James M. Bennett High
• Grade 11, Poetry, 1st Place – Sophia Leimbach, Holly Grove Christian
• Grade 12, Poetry, 2nd Place – Kanya Reid, Pocomoke High
• Grade 12, Short Story, 2nd Place – Jamie Nguyen, Worcester Preparatory

The Eastern Shore Chapter congratulates all participating students and looks forward to continued growth and achievement in future Young Authors’ Contests.