Congratulations to our Upper School students whose Chinese writing skills stood out among 1,000 nationwide submissions.

The 21st annual National Chinese Essay Contest gave St. Stephen’s students an opportunity to showcase their strong Chinese writing skills. Twelve Spartans currently taking Chinese IV, Chinese V or the Chinese Independent Studies Class — who are not native Chinese speakers — competed in the intermediate and advanced categories. This year, out of the 1,000 essays submitted by students across the United States, nine St. Stephen’s students received an award for their outstanding work. The contest was sponsored by the Chinese Language Association of Secondary Schools (CLASS).

“We are so proud of our students,” said Hai Zheng Olefsky, St. Stephen’s associate director of the International Program and Chinese studies chair. “The contest not only helps them to improve their writing skills, but also builds up their confidence.” 

Students were challenged with writing a Chinese essay, related to this year’s sports and physical activity theme in honor of the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris. It was one of the first times since the COVID-19 pandemic when people all over the world could come together to participate, spectate and celebrate sports of every kind — emphasizing the importance of “global competition and camaraderie.” All 9th through 12th graders were challenged with the question, “What does practicing a sport allow you to accomplish, and what challenges have you overcome by practicing a sport or physical activity?”

Isaac Lin ’27 earned gold for his essay about his own fitness journey takeaways while working at a summer camp for kids with mental and physical disabilities. Lin says CAMP (Children's Association for Maximum Potential) provides a fun and inclusive environment where campers of all abilities can thrive. Bonding with his designated camper was eye opening. Together they canoed, jumped rope and went for morning runs — often alongside other campers.

“Over time, I noticed how these activities helped him connect with other campers and cultivate lifelong friendships,” said Lin.

Olefsky says the winning contest results display the dedication and success of St. Stephen’s teachers and students. For juniors and seniors, the prestige and national recognition will enhance college resumes and can open doors for future academic scholarship opportunities. Olefsky is grateful for the support the Chinese program receives from the Still Water Foundation. 

Congratulations to the winners!

Gold Award Winner
Isaac Lin ’27

Silver Award Winners
Marygrace Beinke ’25
Lila Dugan ’26 (Advanced Category)
Steely Horne-Lalande ’25 (2nd year in a row)

Bronze Award Winners
Graham Boles ’25 (Advanced Category)
Miles Notzon ’27 
Valeria Gonzalez Reed ’26 
Carmen Losada Sanchez ’28
Mariana Losada Sanchez ’26