The Kirkwood Human Rights Commission hosts an annual essay contest for all juniors enrolled at Kirkwood High School (KHS), Vianney High School, or Ursuline Academy, all junior Kirkwood residents enrolled elsewhere, and all 11th grade home-schooled students residing in Kirkwood.

KHS students took second, third, and fourth place. They are:

Second Place: Gus Lauberth in Mr. Rowland’s class

Third place: Arul Osburn in Mrs. Morrison’s class

Fourth place: Khadija Khan in Mr. Rowland’s class

Students wrote a 500-750 word essay from a writing prompt. This year’s topic was, “What is the most important human rights issue currently and why?” Based on essays received, a panel of judges voted on the winners and based their decision on how well the essay efficiently expresses ideas in response to the writing prompt.

For their placements, the KHS students will receive $75, $50 and $25 cash prizes respectively.

The Kirkwood Human Rights Commission presented the awards to the students at the May 4 Kirkwood City Council meeting.