Two Okaloosa County middle school students have earned top honors in the Plank Schlitt Middle School United States History Writing Contest, part of the Heritage Museum of Northwest Florida’s America 250 celebration marking the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

Lilly Lopez of Destin Middle School earned first place, and Aisha Ramirez of Pryor Middle School earned second place. The Okaloosa County School District said the students demonstrated exceptional writing, historical understanding and creativity.

This year’s contest invited students to explore the enduring significance of the Declaration of Independence and reflect on its impact on life in the United States today. The competition is named in honor of two longtime Okaloosa County United States history teachers who continued supporting the Heritage Museum after retiring from Niceville High School.

• “We are incredibly proud of Lilly and Aisha for this outstanding achievement,” Superintendent Marcus Chambers said. “Their hard work, thoughtful writing, and passion for history reflect the excellence we see in our students across Okaloosa County. These young ladies represented their schools and our district exceptionally well.”

Destin Middle School Principal Mandy Lopez shared both professional and personal pride in Lilly’s accomplishment.

“At DMS, we are proud to develop students who can think critically, write with purpose, and communicate their ideas effectively,” she said. “Lilly’s accomplishment reflects the strong work happening in our classrooms each day and the dedication of our teachers who continue to challenge and support student learning. And while I’m incredibly proud as principal, it is a little more special that I also get to be her mom.”

Pryor Middle School Principal Jason McClelland also praised Aisha’s achievement.

“Aisha’s dedication and creativity demonstrate the bright future ahead for our students,” he said. “We are proud of her for using her voice and talents to honor our nation’s history.”

The winning essays will be featured in the Heritage Museum’s “Celebrate America 250! The Revolution” exhibit on July 4 at 11 a.m., giving the community an opportunity to view the students’ work as part of the museum’s Independence Day celebration.

The Okaloosa County School District extended its congratulations to the two students and thanked the Heritage Museum of Northwest Florida for providing opportunities for students to engage with American history.