GISH Students Win Holocaust Essay Contest for Second Year in a Row

Celebrating student voice, historical reflection, and the power of moral courage.

 

At Grand Island Senior High, a powerful tradition is taking root; one centered around remembrance, reflection, and moral courage. Thanks to the guidance of English teacher Beth Butters and the dedication of her AP Language and Composition students, the school is making its mark in the prestigious Holocaust Essay Contest hosted by the Institute for Holocaust Education in Omaha.

 

Junior Anni Nguyen is the latest to bring this honor home. Her essay, which explores the concept of moral courage, has earned her first place in this year’s contest. This marks the second honor for Grand Island Senior High. Last year’s winner, Owen Williams, set the bar high, and Anni’s thoughtful and personal take proves the standard hasn’t slipped.

 

Mrs. Butters has made this project a meaningful part of her curriculum. 

 

“We start with defining moral courage,” she explains. “Then students research individuals, one from the Holocaust era and one from any other period, who embody that definition. The contest rubric helps guide them, but it’s the personal connections they make that really drives the work.”

 

Anni’s definition of moral courage is clear: 

 

“The ability to authentically honor your personal values, even in the face of danger, adversity, and opposition or behind closed doors.”

 

When asked why Holocaust education matters today, Anni didn’t hesitate. “We never think something like that could happen again, but it did happen. Learning about it helps us recognize the signs, and hopefully prevent something like it in the future, even at smaller levels, like bullying or discrimination.”

 

Congratulations to Anni for winning this year's Holocaust education essay contest!

 

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