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In its ongoing mission to support community, youth, and education, members of Austin’s VFW recently awarded Pacelli Catholic Schools with a generous check for $1,000. This recognition is for their yearly participation in the VFW’s Patriots Pen Essay Writing Contest and Pacelli’s continued dedication to educating its students in the areas of civics, government, and citizenship.

This year’s essay prompt, “How are you inspired by America?” was given as a writing assignment to all the seventh and eighth grade students at Pacelli by their social studies teacher, Nick McGrath. However, they were not required to enter the contest and those who entered did so of their volition. McGrath observed a diverse range of responses, with students drawing inspiration from various aspects of America, including first responders, military personnel, American history, civil rights, and the nation’s leadership in funding climate change research. Pacelli extends heartfelt gratitude to Austin’s VFW for acknowledging the school’s commitment to creating informed, engaged, and civic-minded students. Their generous donation further demonstrates the shared visions of the VFW and Pacelli of empowering and investing in the next generation.