Pacific South Writing Rally celebrates budding writers

OKINAWA, JAPAN – Lester Middle School proudly hosted its eleventh annual all-middle-school Writing Rally, continuing a beloved tradition that has spanned over a decade in the Pacific South District, on Saturday, April 26, 2025. This event, originally established by the dedicated efforts of Ms. Valerie Roshong and Ms. Hilarie Meadows, brings together young writers from Okinawa’s three middle schools: Ryukyu Middle School, Lester Middle School, and Kadena Middle School.

The Writing Rally is more than just a competition; it’s a vibrant celebration of creativity and expression for students to practice the transformative power of words. Over the years, it has become a much-anticipated highlight of the academic calendar, eagerly awaited by students, teachers, and parents alike. The Parent-Teacher Organizations (PTOs) from all three schools play a crucial role in supporting the event by providing prizes, lunch, cake, and snacks for the participants.

"We could not do this without the wonderful support of our amazing PTO,” middle school teacher Bryan Strach explained. “As an ELA teacher, it is exciting to see such a talented group of young writers challenging themselves to create new works of fiction."

During this year’s rally, students were given two prompts and 40 minutes to write about each topic. After completing their entries, students read each other’s work, ranking their top three favorites from each round. The first-place winners were Elena Demitrack, of Lester Middle School, and Veronica Washington, of Kadena Middle School. Each student received a copy of a leatherbound journal and pen – perfect additions for any aspiring writer.

This event fosters a sense of camaraderie among fellow young writers, providing a unique opportunity for budding writers to connect, share ideas, and appreciate each other’s work.

“The students enjoyed using their creativity to develop fictional stories, applying their own style and voice in new and innovative ways,” said Ms. Hilarie Meadows, one of the event’s founders.

StudentsnotonlyarrivedearlyonaSaturdaymorningtoengageinthewritingprocess but also dedicated time to reading and rating 36 stories in one continuous session, demonstrating the young writers’ passion for creative writing.