Miyasi Welivita, an 8th-grade student at Ladue Middle School, is being celebrated after being named a first-place winner in the Missouri Peace Officers Foundation (MPOF) Essay Contest. 

This prestigious contest invited eighth-grade students across Missouri to reflect on the topic: "Today's Challenges & Threats: Explain Your Three Greatest Concerns That Your Generation Faces."

Miyasi's thoughtful and insightful essay stood out among submissions from all over Missouri, earning her the top distinction for the state's east side.

To honor her accomplishment, Sgt. Romas from the Creve Coeur Police Department presented Miyasi, LMS, and her English Language Arts teacher, Greg Schmitz, with a certificate and checks during a presentation at Ladue Middle School. 

Miyasi’s proud parents were on hand, alongside LMS Principal Dr. Angela Thompson, Assistant Principal Scott Lackey, and School Resource Officer Ryan Eaton as Miyasi received a $300 check, Mr. Schmitz a $100 check, and the school a $100 check.

Miyasi’s essay and a photo from the award ceremony will be featured in an upcoming issue of Law Enforcement magazine, published by the Missouri Peace Officers Association (MPOA).

Please join us in congratulating Miyasi for this outstanding accomplishment. Her voice represents the thoughtful, engaged, and forward-thinking spirit we strive to foster in all Ladue Schools students.