Zieammermann honored by Governor
Monday, February 6, 2012
Olpe Junior High School seventh-grader Anthony Zieammermann was honored by Kansas Gov. Sam Brownback as the statewide winner of an essay contest at the capital in Topeka last week.
Zieammermann was one of over 1,000 students to compete in the “If I were Mayor, I would...” essay contest sponsored by the League of Kansas Municipalities. For winning the competition, Zieammermann received a $500 savings bond.
Gov. Brownback recognized the six regional winners as well as Zieammermann, who read his essay in front of those that attended the awards ceremony.
“He was very polished in the delivery of his essay as he spoke to many city leaders,” said Olpe junior high language arts and social studies teacher Michelle Barnhart, who attended the ceremony with Zieammermann. “I was very impressed with how he handled himself in that environment.”
Barnhart encouraged students in her seventh-grade English/Social Studies integrated block to participate in the contest.
“We have traditionally made it part of our social studies curriculum to take part in it under the topic “‘If I were mayor, I would.,’” said Barnhart. “Students are asked to write a 250-word essay on what they would do if they were in the position of Mayor for their communities.”
In Zieammermann’s essay, he focused on the need for citizens to trust elected officials.
“He focused on establishing trust in his community and trying to follow through on promises,” said Barnhart.
Barnhart thought the sincere tone of Zieammermann’s essay is what made it stand apart from the over 1,000 other entries.
“His essay, I thought, had a lot of sincerity to it,” said Barnhart. “He also mentioned how difficult it is to be in a position of leadership in terms of criticism and complaints and information day in and day out to which a leader must respond ... I think it rang true with the people who were in a position to judge it best.”
With his interest in policy and his naturally magnetic demeanor and polish, Barnhart said she would like to see Zieammermann in a position of leadership in the future.
“I mentioned that he was the type that people are drawn to and instantly connect with,” she said. “I certainly could see Anthony being in a leadership position in his community. I hope he does continue to develop those skills.”