Stafford Student Wins Virginia Lottery's Thank A Teacher Art Contest

STAFFORD COUNTY, VA — A seventh grader from Edward Drew Middle School in Stafford County won the Virginia Lottery Thank a Teacher Art Contest in the middle school category. The student, Jocelyn Turman, will have her work featured on thank-you notes for teachers in May.

Turman's art will be featured on thank-you notes during National Teacher Appreciation Week from May 2 to May 6.

During a surprise presentation on Friday, lottery officials awarded a $150 gift card to Turman. Edward Drew Middle School received $1,000 from the Virginia Lottery and $1,000 from the Supply room for the school's art department.

Turman was one of three winners selected from more than 300 applicants. The competition also recognized an elementary schooler and a high schooler, the Virginia Lottery said.

“Teachers are at the heart of the Lottery’s role to support K-12 public education in Virginia, and we love the opportunity to celebrate all their hard work through the Thank a Teacher campaign.” Virginia Lottery Acting Executive Director Kelly Gee said in a news release. “It is an extra special touch to display such meaningful art on these thank-you notes. We are excited to once again recognize three of Virginia’s own talented public school artists with this award!”

Through the campaign, the Virginia Lottery said they have sent more than 175,000 thank-you notes to teachers across the state. Officials said they have also awarded 10 Virginia-themed trips to teachers.

A panel of "blue-ribbon" judges selected the contest winners for the contest, according to the Virginia Lottery.

“This piece is an exceptional piece that shows the evolution of a child's personal and academic growth through their relationships with their teachers," said Christine Greenleaf, who is a member of the panel of judges.

More information about the Thank a Teacher Art Contest will be announced on the Virginia Lottery's website in the coming weeks.

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