A pair of Lake Pend Oreille School District students were recognized by the Veterans of Foreign Wars for their achievement in a recent essay contest. In addition, Hope Elementary was honored for its support of the organizations.

Juniper Zunin, a student at Clark Fork High School, won second place in the district-wide VFW "Voice of Democracy" writing contest. Not only did Zunin win a cash prize, but she also earned the school a certificate acknowledging her contribution.

Hope Elementary sixth grader Breckham Noble won second place in district honors in the VFW Patriot's Pen Essay Contest. The essay contest is a nationwide annual event for sixth through eighth graders. Noble placed among all entries in North Idaho.

Additionally, Hope Elementary School received a framed certificate of service for "distinguished service in furthering the aims and ideals of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States."

"[We are] so proud and grateful for our relationship with our veterans," Principal Sherri Hatley said.