Student wins the local and district-level Lions International Peace Essay Contest

Donny Leavell, Merriman Park ES student, has taken the first steps to becoming an internationally recognized writer.

Donny Leavell, a 5th grader at Merriman Park Elementary , has taken the first steps to becoming an internationally recognized writer! He won the local and district-level Lions International Peace Essay Contest, which provides an opportunity for visually impaired young people to express their feelings of peace and share their story through this year’s theme, “Together as One”.

His essay will continue to advance to multiple district and international levels of competition. We’re cheering you on, Donny!

SHARE THIS POST

students-working-assignment

2026-2027 Elementary GT Testing Referral Window

RISD elementary students may test once per year to determine if they qualify for gifted/talented (GT) services. The window to refer your child/ren for testing opens September 29, 2026 and closes October 13, 2026.