Northbrook Student’s Stock Market Essay Wins State Contest

NORTHBROOK, IL — While just a fifth-grader, Anthony Pace knows a thing or two about the stock market. The Westmoor Elementary School student recently proved as much by placing first in the state in the elementary school division of the InvestWrite national essay competition.

Last spring, students in fourth and fifth grade at the school participated in "The Stock Market Game," a financial education program challenging students to manage a hypothetical $100,000 online portfolio of stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and cash, according to Northbrook District 28. The game and the essay contest are sponsored by Securities Industry and Financial Markets Association Foundation. The foundation delivered a cache of prizes to Pace after his essay was named the best in the state in the elementary division. In total, 959 students competed nationwide.

"Anthony has so much going for him," said Nick Grigolo, Pace's fourth-grade teacher. "He is hardworking and kind, but what really impresses me is his ability and desire to go above and beyond what is expected of him as a student. Good isn't good enough. Anthony always gives his very best."

According to the district, Pace's essay recaps his experience investing in the game and offering the golden rule of advice in stocks: "buy low, sell high." Pace was presented the award on Monday in front of his classmates.

"Mr. Sylvano (Westmont's fourth-grade literacy teacher) taught me to really like literacy and writing, and I wanted to try my best to see if I could win anything," Pace said. "I thought I might make it in the top 10, but I didn’t think I would win."

Pace said he is devoting his writing efforts this year to fiction, especially fantasy and mystery fiction. As for the $100 gift card, he says he plans to save it.