Newsroom

"Thank a Teacher" Art Contest Winner

A Grafton Middle School (GMS) student’s artwork may soon grace the desks and bulletin boards of thousands of teachers across Virginia. In a surprise ceremony this week, Allie Beatley learned she is one of three students in the state to win the Virginia Lottery Thank a Teacher Art Contest.

Nearly 700 students entered the competition, with the state selecting one winner at each level (elementary, middle, high). The winners will have their artwork featured on thank-you notes which will be distributed during Teacher Appreciation Week (May 8-12, 2023). Additionally, Allie received a $200 gift card, and GMS received $1,000 from the Virginia Lottery and $1,000 from The Supply Room for its art department.

The Virginia Lottery began the Thank a Teacher student art contest in 2017. Allie is now the third YCSD student to be honored since the contest’s inception!