American Legion and VFW award Superior students
Fronm left, Mrs. Vickey Nytes, Joe Griffith with American Legion Post 13 in St. Regis. 8th grade students Connor Jordan, Ethan Durovey, Wyatt Doughty, along with Herman Berneking (class of 1962), and Jim DeBree with the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 6238 in Superior. The 3 students were this year’s winners of the School Awards Program. (Monte Turner/Mineral Independent)
Last week, a special awards ceremony was held in Mrs. Nytes’ eighth-grade class at Superior School.
Three students received recognition for their knowledge of American history during its formative time 200 years ago from the two veteran organizations in Mineral County: American Legion Post 13 of St. Regis and Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 6238 in Superior.
“This year, the social studies classes of Mrs. Nytes' eighth grade at Superior and Mr. Stanek's senior class at St. Regis participated. The program is open to all schools in the county and we look forward to more and more participation as we develop Americanism in our youth,” Joe Griffith with Post 13 explained.
The goal is to inculcate patriotism, good citizenship, and love of God and country. The tests and essays are provided to the schools and are graded by the teachers, and the essays are reviewed by the Americanism committee members of the American and VFW posts sponsoring the program.
Youth are recognized for their scholastic achievements but the American Legion believes that they should be praised when they demonstrate strong qualities of character and good citizenship. That’s why, since 1926, the Legion has recognized such students with its School Awards Program.
Conner Jordon is in the eighth grade with his entire education in the Superior School District and he considers himself a true history buff.
“I love the battles and wars that happened between the countries. I love to study that kind of stuff,” he shared.
The test he took that put him in first place covered the era just before the Revolutionary War up to the War of 1812. Jordon said that as much as he likes to read history, it’s not what he is considering down the road.
“I’m more looking to do welding, but history is going to be a hobby as I enjoy it and learn so much.”
He admits that he was surprised he won the contest because he knew he was up against strong contenders. However, he also admits that he might have had an advantage.
“Over the summer, and in previous summers, I would study history. I still do and feel I had a better background knowledge of it than anyone else did.”
Jordon received $100. Ethan Durovey in second place received $50 and in third place, Wyatt Doughty received $25, which was split equally by the local Legion and VFW.