Local student Sofia Tate was recognized by the Harrison County Board of Education Wednesday for finishing third in the national Modern Woodmen of America's 2013 School Speech Contest. Pictured back row, from left, are school board members Doug Hogue, Allen Gorrell, David Sturm, Gary Hamrick and Mike Queen. Pictured front row, from left, are Big Elm Elementary teacher Dana Quinones, Big Elm Elementary Principal Julie Mancini, Superintendent Susan Collins, Tate and Modern Woodmen representatives David Grisso and Steve Strait. Staff photo by Adam Tobias
Local student Sofia Tate was recognized by the Harrison County Board of Education Wednesday for finishing third in the national Modern Woodmen of America's 2013 School Speech Contest. Pictured back row, from left, are school board members Doug Hogue, Allen Gorrell, David Sturm, Gary Hamrick and Mike Queen. Pictured front row, from left, are Big Elm Elementary teacher Dana Quinones, Big Elm Elementary Principal Julie Mancini, Superintendent Susan Collins, Tate and Modern Woodmen representatives David Grisso and Steve Strait. Staff photo by Adam Tobias
CLARKSBURG — Harrison County student Sofia Tate has earned national honors in the Modern Woodmen of America’s 2013 School Speech Contest.
Tate finished third in the national competition as a fifth-grader at Big Elm Elementary School in Shinnston. She is now a sixth-grader at Lumberport Middle School.
As a winner of the fraternal organization’s annual contest, Tate has received a $1,000 savings plan and two plaques — with one going to Big Elm Elementary.
All students who competed were asked to talk about one person who has overcome an obstacle in life.
Tate’s speech focused on the struggles of Jennifer Bricker, an aerial gymnast who was born with a physical disability.
At a young age, Bricker was interested in gymnastics despite having no legs. Her parents gave her up at birth because they believed they wouldn’t have the energy or the finances for her care.
Following years of training, Bricker won an Illinois state gymnastics title as part of a competitive tumbling team. She then earned a spot in the United States Junior Olympics by placing fourth overall.
After focusing on aerial arts, Bricker became a feature performer at Disney World and went on tour with musicians. Today, she is an aerial performer and motivational speaker.
“‘Can’t’ was a four-letter word she couldn’t use,” Tate said. “Her determination and courage are something to be respected.”
The School Speech Contest, which is one of six youth educational programs sponsored by the Modern Woodmen, is provided to schools across the country at no cost.
More than 100,000 young people competed in the 2013 event, with 23 advancing to the national competition.
Tate was recognized Wednesday by the Harrison County Board of Education for her accomplishments.
She also gave the speech that won her the award.
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