29-04-2025
Ohio AG honors middle-schoolers for anti-violence essays
DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) – Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost recognized nine Springfield middle-school students for their essays on Tuesday.
These essays were written for the annual Do the Write Thing Initiative. Students shared their perspective on violence and community safety.
'Writing about violence isn't easy, … but your essays were powerful, thoughtful and eye-opening,' said Yost in a video addressing the Springfield finalists. 'You're giving all of us a window into your world, and that helps us understand how we can work together to make things better.'
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The Do the Write Thing Initiative, started in 1994 by the National Campaign to Stop Youth Violence, allows middle schoolers to share their perspectives and drive change in the community through writing.
In 2021, Yost's office and the campaign partnered to bring the initiative to Ohio. Springfield, Canton, Cleveland, Lima, Youngstown and Zanesville all participate annually.
The recognition ceremony was held at the John Legend Theater on Tuesday, April 29. Teachers, parents/guardians and community members showed their support for the students.
The work of these finalists will be published in a booklet, which will be distributed soon.
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Springfield Schools Superintendent, Dr. Robert Hill, wrote a letter on the impact of the initiative.
'Writing is one of the most powerful ways to express your thoughts, emotions, and experiences,' wrote Dr. Hill. 'By participating in this competition, you have exhibited just how strong and courageous you are.'
One student, Jasyla Lambey, will go to Washington, D.C. in July to represent the district at the Do the Write Thing National Recognition. Lambey will go with four peers from other Ohio school districts.
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