North Clinton student earns honors in bookmark contest


ELISSA SOPHACK
More than 270 students from across Tennessee submitted an original design for the annual bookmark contest, sponsored by the Tennessee Association of School Librarians. The theme of this year’s contest was “Everyone Belongs at Your School Library.”

Through a collaborative effort between NCES librarian Janie Jackson and art teacher Ashley Webb, students participated in creating a bookmark that represented the theme. Student entries were judged by illustrator Kris Sexton in the categories of creativity, execution of the theme, and use of materials.

North Clinton 4th grader Elissa Sophack received honorable mention in the intermediate division. She received 25 bookmarks with her design, an enlarged copy, and an award certificate. Ms. Jackson received 100 bookmarks of Elissa’s winning design and an enlarged copy.

Elissa said, “I used crayons of every color. They represent people of every color, and that they belong, no matter how they look or what they believe.” Ms. Jackson said, “I am so excited for Elissa! This is the first year that we have had an entry to win.”

Copies of Elissa’s bookmark will also be sent to the Tennessee State Legislature and distributed to librarians across the state at the TASL conference this fall.