A 10-year-old Willow Springs Elementary student has been recognized as one of the top 10 winners in a statewide contest about American pride.
Abigail Novykova, an English Language Learner (ELL) student, will receive the Lieutenant Governor's Award for American Patriotism during an upcoming ceremony at the Missouri State Capitol. As one of the top 10 letter writers, she will also meet Missouri Lt. Gov. David Wasinger.
Novykova’s ELL teacher, Shelly Rickard, said her students recently participated in the contest by writing letters to the lieutenant governor's office explaining why they are proud to be Americans.
Novykova’s deep appreciation for the freedoms enjoyed in the U.S. is rooted in her Ukrainian culture, history and values passed down through her family. Those lasting legacies give her courage and pride in being an American while inspiring her writing and ambitions.
Outside of the classroom, Novykova enjoys spending time with her family, painting and playing soccer. In the future, she hopes to become a judge, build a family and always care for her mother.
Novykova’s letter reads: “I love America because God gave me freedom. I can go to any church I want and read the Bible in my home. My grandma used to live in Ukraine. She had to hide pages from her Bible under her mattress when she was a little girl. I have a good future in America. I will achieve my dreams of going to college and becoming a judge, having a nice family, and taking care of my mom. I’m thankful that America is the land of the free.”
