YORK COUNTY, Va. (WAVY) – The Virginia School Boards Association (VSBA) Conference of Education announced the winner of the 2024 VSBA Student Essay Contest on Tuesday.

Ann Cherian, who is a rising junior at Grafton High School in York County Public Schools, was announced as the winner of this year’s essay contest, themed called “Kind Hearts, Strong Schools.”

Judges stated Cherian’s insightful and heartfelt words won her a $1,000 scholarship, courtesy of WellNet Healthcare.

“This contest provides an incredible platform for school board members from across the Commonwealth to hear directly from our students on topics that matter to them,” VSBA Executive Director Gina Patterson said.

As a part of Cherian’s recognition, she was invited to deliver her speech to the Conference on Education in front of Virginia school board members, superintendents and school division staff.

Cherian’s speech can be viewed in full here.