The Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce recently hosted its State of Education event. Several high school students were recognized for their 5K for Freedom Essay Contest submissions.
The Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce created the 5K for Freedom Essay Contest as part of the Chamber Foundation. The Chamber Foundation has actively promoted collaboration between local businesses and the Torrance Unified School District. Among these collaborative opportunities have been the Adopt-A-School program, the LEAD program, Principal for a Day, Executive for a Day, and Business for a Day. These programs have allowed local businesses, through mentorship, to bridge the employment needs with a well-trained, well educated workforce pool.
Of the forty essays submitted, 7 high school students were chosen as top winners. Students were asked to address the prompt, “Every day, the people of America depend on the men and women of the United States Armed Forces to protect our land, values, and freedoms both at home and abroad. In your own words, reflect on your definition of the word freedom. In the development of your answer, consider how this freedom has affected and/or enhanced not only your life, but the lives of others.”
This year’s winners included:
- Grace Choe, North High School
- Alexis Choi, South High School
- Hailey Ellingson, Ambassador High School
- Sophia Hsu, South High School
- Brandon Kim, Torrance High School
- Annabelle Lee, North High School
- Abigail Morey, Ambassador High School