Last month, over 40 educators and Rotarians from across Georgia gathered at the annual Teacher & Rotarian Workshop Luncheon hosted by Georgia Rotary Clubs Laws of Life Essay Contest to kick off the 2021-2022 Contest. We  gathered at the Emory Conference Center Silverbell Pavilion for a program which provided inspiration, information, and optimism for the future of our outstanding student writers.

As GLL Board Member Darlene Drew led the workshop, she honored the participating teachers as she shared poignant stories of a beloved teacher of her own. Darlene introduced video of State Winner and Bainbridge High School graduate Corbin Austin reading his poignant essay which included the law, “True happiness comes from making others happy.”

District 6900 DGE George Granade expressed gratitude to the teachers as well as the Rotary Clubs participating in the contest, noting that Student Recognition events held by clubs that partner with a local high school to honor the school’s winning students often become a favorite program for the club building greater connection between the members and the students.

GLL Program Manager Linda Hatten reinforced the impact that the contest has on students and school communities as an effective tool for Social and Emotional Learning, saying that “writing a Laws of Life essay helps a student realize that they have power and wisdom within themselves to work through difficult, unexpected, and sometimes painful experiences in life. She also gave an overview of the key points of the contest and introduced two teachers who serve as school contest chairs: Amanda Howell of Rome High School and Jessica Allen of Bremen High School. Amanda and Jessica shared their perspectives on how the Laws of Life Essay Contest serves a vital role in fostering student growth as writers and as individuals. Jessica then introduced video of Bremen Grade Winner Jordan Heidorn reading his essay with his personal law, “Amplify what makes you you.”

Wrapping up the workshop, GLL Board Director Beth McIntyre reminded the audience of the Georgia Laws of Life vision, “The Georgia Laws of Life Essay Contest is in every Georgia high school with strong partnerships among Rotary, schools, districts and teachers to provide the opportunity for students to reflect upon their lives, express personal beliefs and affirm strong character values through writing.”

Your club can help support the contest throughout the state and in your local community. Members from Sponsoring Rotary Clubs volunteer as Essay Judges to select Grade, School and State Winners in February. Rotary Club Sponsors who choose to also serve as a School Partner with a local school host Student Recognition Events honoring students, parents and teachers from their partner school. For information on how your club can become involved contact Carol Walker, Executive Director at carol@georgialawsoflife.org or 404-590-8039.