Firefly Credit Union looked to local third graders in the Burnsville-Eagan-Savage School District 191 to tell them why they love and belong in the city they call home.
Local students wrote essays for the “I Belong in Burnsville” contest. Three winners were selected by Burnsville Mayor Elizabeth Kautz and Firefly’s Chief Marketing Officer, Marty Kelly. This year, winners included Levi W. and Aiden P. from Edward Neill Elementary and Ashlynn H. from William Byrne Elementary. Honorable mentions were awarded to Mallory P. from Edward Neill Elementary and Gabriella P. from Gideon Pond. Firefly awarded $50 to contest winners and to their respective teachers to help aid in providing classroom supplies. Honorable mentions in the essay contest, as well as their teachers, received $25.
Third graders read their winning essays at Burnsville’s virtual City Council Meeting on June 2. The audience included council members, community leaders, and teachers.
“I am very happy that my family moved to Burnsville. The community is very kind, helpful and I am glad I live here.”said winner, Ashlynn H.
In addition to a welcoming community, another common trend among entries was the fun activities that take place in Burnsville and how great local schools are. Students also noted feeling thankful for community workers, such as doctors, dentists, and first responders.
“The ‘I Belong in Burnsville’ essay contest was such an enjoyable activity to help judge,” said Firefly Credit Union Chief Marketing Officer, Marty Kelly. “It’s great to see how excited students are to call Burnsville home. The students remind us of the things that make Burnsville such a wonderful place to live and work.”
Firefly Credit Union Chief Marketing Officer, Marty Kelly, and Burnsville Mayor Elizabeth Kautz judge the essays submitted for the contest.
Third graders read their winning essays at Burnsville’s City Council meeting.