Young Oak Knoll Artist Chosen As Winner in UC Poster Contest

Fourth-grader Samantha Parelli of Madison was recently chosen as one of 12 winners of the annual “My County” poster contest sponsored by the constitutional officers of Union County.

The contest is held each year to promote awareness of the work accomplished throughout Union County. Fourth graders, who study the State of New Jersey according to the NJ Core Curriculum Standards, are invited to design a poster for the contest. The design and content of the poster are at the discretion of the student, although the theme of the poster must center on Union County. This year, more than 200 entries were submitted from Union County schools — including 34 from Oak Knoll — and Samantha’s poster was chosen as one of 12 finalists.

Samantha received the “Achievement Award” for her depiction of Union County. She decided to illustrate a busy street in downtown Summit. Since Samantha loves to shop, she highlighted the important places to her: the bank, stores, and the Summit Diner. Her poster will be published with the other winners in an annual Union County calendar.

Along with her fourth grade classmates, this year Samantha has studied the geography and history of New Jersey in social studies class.

“We often discuss Union County and how much the county has changed over time,” said John Bertollo, assistant principal and middle level social studies teacher. “This poster contest is a wonderful opportunity for the students to show their artistic abilities and to show what they know about the county. I knew Samantha had a great shot to win when I saw her poster. She has a unique style to her artwork and the judges at the ceremony even commented on how unique and interesting her artwork was. Samantha has a bright future!”

Oak Knoll School of the Holy Child is an independent Catholic school enrolling boys and girls in kindergarten through grade six; and young women only in grades seven through 12. For more information about Oak Knoll and this strategic tuition initiative, visit www.oakknoll.org or call 908-522-8109.

Editor's Note: This press release was submitted by the Oak Knoll Department of Communications.