Hickory Creek students earn awards for economics posters

Hickory Creek Middle School students earned recognition in the Illinois Council on Economic Education’s 2013 Econ Illinois Economics Poster Contest.  Illinois teachers of grades 1-8 use the poster contest to stimulate students’ interest in the fundamentals of our economic system. The program helps students learn about the economy and have fun doing it while creatively demonstrating their understanding. This year, more than 3800 students from nearly 60 schools participated in the contest.

Hickory Creek Middle School eighth grade student Megan Hussey won a first place award at the regional level and an honorable mention award at the state level.  Eighth graders also winning at the regional level included Miranda Schor winning a second place award, Jessica Ajuzie winning a third place award and Jack Dingle winning an honorable mention award.  Hickory Creek Middle School Principal Dr. Kevin Suchinski stated, “The economic poster contest allowed the students the opportunity to demonstrate in a creative way their understanding of the economy. The entries submitted by our students exemplified a dedication to detail and a passion to learn. I’d like to congratulate Megan, Miranda, Jessica and Jack on their outstanding effort in the economic poster contest”.

The students are in the Advisory classes of teachers Michelle Sommer and Korinne Johnson.  Ms. Johnson stated, “This being my first year doing the poster contest, I was very pleased to see how many students were excited about participating.  They all produced some really great work and had fun with the challenge.”

Students were required to make a poster to illustrate a clear and artistic depiction of one of six economic concepts. At the conclusion of regional judging, each regional competition submitted their top 24 entries for judging at the state level. From these entries, 12 winners were selected and their drawings will be made into a twelve month color calendar.  Ms. Sommer stated, “"Students enjoy the challenge of designing a poster without words that represents an economic concept they understand.  They also appreciate the fact that their work has authentic meaning to someone beyond the walls of our school."

At both the regional and state levels, winning students receive monetary awards and certificates. Teachers also receive recognition.  The regional winners, teachers and families will be honored at a reception at Governors State University on May 13.  More information about the program is at http://www.econed-il.org/icee/econposter.shtml.