Four Gerstell eleventh grade students won the Intellectual Freedom Challenge, a contest run through the National English Honor Society (NEHS). The Intellectual Freedom Challenge contest involves National English teachers and students who select a favorite novel that has been banned due to controversial issues, language, or the story scenes depicted. After selecting a banned novel, students write an argument essay which defends the teaching of the novel, thereby banning censorship while instilling protection of intellectual freedom for generations to come. Considering the NEHS committee receives essays from English Honor Society students across the nation, this award is a prestigious recognition. The winning students are AP Language and Composition leaders: Haley Gochnauer, Zoe Dackermann, Matthew Burdyck, and Nicole Radams. 

 

"Your chapter made quite a showing," wrote Dave Wendelin, NEHS Director, in an email to Mrs. Diana Ricker, the AP English teacher and chapter advisor. Each student will receive $100 cash and a $25 gift certificate. Gerstell's chapter will receive $200 to help further its work.

 

Mrs. Ricker, shares, “I am so proud of the students’ accomplishments, and I look forward to mentoring them as they use their leadership skills to win additional contests and scholarships in the future.”