Last week Assemblyman Ed Ra (R-Franklin Square) honored the semifinalists and winner of his annual civics competition, “There Ought To Be A Law,” at a ceremony in Mineola Memorial Park. Over 175 members of our community attended.

Students from nine schools across Ra’s district built on their state government lessons this year by crafting legislative proposals for consideration. Ra presented 30 semi-finalists with congratulatory certificates.

Sofia Klocek’s proposal to combat food insecurity by investing in free, nutritious meals for all students enrolled in school won the competition. Ra noted Klocek’s legislation was especially timely, as many families across the state found themselves in difficult circumstances beyond their control due to COVID-19.

“I want to thank each and every student who participated this year. Certainly, we hope this contest teaches students about civics and government. We hope it promotes problem solving and collaboration. We’re also encouraging our kids to simply imagine a better world. We want them to be inspired by that,” said Ra.

Ra also expressed his appreciation for all of the teachers who were instrumental to this year’s contest.

The honored semifinalists include:

Hebrew Academy Of Nassau County
David Alper
Jasmine Brand
Dovi Lemel

Manor Oaks School
Alish Cidrone
Ella Fagan
Dylan Imperatore
Nailah Islam
Vedant Patel

Vihaan Puri
Robby Spina

Notre Dame
Amelia Pietruszka
Mireille Richards

Stratford School
Margot Hearon
Sofia Klocek

John Street School
Joseph Grippaldi
Sophia Sanchez
Ellie Spantopanagos

Mineola Middle School
Paige Accardi
Andrew Bertrand
Alyssa Gillen
Olivia LaBarbera
Sarah Martin
Zalen Parekh
Madison Santos
Maxwell Troche

Stewart School
Chloe McCormack

St. Anne's School
Margaret Guder
Avery McDevitt

Washington Street School
Angelina Balducci
Joseph Colatorti