As a project of Wildlife Conservation Through Compassionate Living, ARFF encouraged students to actively search out and evaluate information regarding animals used for entertainment.

Through research and creative writing, students in grades 2 through 12 were asked to submit entries on a topic involving the use of animals for entertainment purposes (e.g. circus, rodeo). Students were encouraged to express their feelings and ethical opinions, as well as convey accurate information regarding the chosen subject.

First place and runner-up prizes were awarded to students who submitted the most well thought out and researched essays, presented with the most depth and feeling.

Essays were evaluated in three seperate groups: high school, junior high, and elementary level students.

Winners
(essays require Adobe Acrobat Reader, which can be downloaded for free here).

High School:
1st place: Michael DiMartino, Coral Springs Charter School - click here to read essay.
2nd place: Shannon Burton, Niceville High School - click here to read essay.

Junior High:
1st place: Doree Greenfield, Forest Glen Middle School - click here to read essay.
2nd place: Sydney Sibner, Forest Glen Middle School - click here to read essay.

Elementary School:
1st place: Griffen Bridwell, Kenwood Elementary School - click here to read essay.
2nd place: Connor Brogan, Kenwood Elementary School - click here to read essay.