On the evening of January 8, 2025, four talented fifth-grade students from Ettrick Elementary School participated in the annual Trempealeau County Conservation Speaking Contest.
Held in the Trempealeau County Board Room in Whitehall, the contest challenged students to research and write compelling 3–5 minute speeches on conservation topics, which they presented to a three-person panel of judges. Competing in the elementary division for 5th and 6th graders, all four students delivered outstanding performances, making it a tough decision for the judges to select a winner.
In the end, the results were as follows:
1st Place: Sophie Schaefer (6th Grade) — "Root for Change: We Need Trees!"
2nd Place: Lillian Triana (5th Grade) — "Bee Aware!"
3rd Place: Annalise Tabbert (5th Grade) — "The Little Monster" (emerald ash borer)
4th Place: Jett Leffelman (5th Grade) — "A Quarter Century of CWD in Wisconsin"
5th Place: Jessica Kitchner (5th Grade) — "Decrease in Butterflies in Our Area"
We are incredibly proud of these young conservationists for their hard work, dedication, and poise in delivering such impactful speeches. Congratulations to all participants for their excellent performances and for representing our school so well!