Rockwood South’s Own Gabrielle Ferguson Triumphs in National Middle School Contest

Gabrielle Ferguson, an eighth-grader at Rockwood South Middle School, won the Association for Middle Level Education (AMLE) Middle School Student Sound Off contest. This annual contest, held in March during Middle Level Education Month, invites 10-15 year-olds worldwide to share their middle school experiences in creative formats.

Ferguson produced a podcast episode titled 'The Purpose of Middle School,' discussing the crucial role of middle school education. Her views on how middle school prepares students for future academic and life challenges impressed the judges, earning her first place.

As the winner, Ferguson will receive a $250 Amazon gift card, an award plaque, and an invitation to the AMLE24 Annual Conference, which takes place from November 6-9 in Nashville, Tennessee. She will also be featured as a guest on the AMLE's Middle School Walk & Talk Podcast.

Kristen Engle, Ferguson's language arts teacher, supported her in creating the podcast and submitting her entry. Engle advocates for student involvement in learning, aligning with Rockwood's educational philosophy that promotes active engagement and exploration.

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