Akiva Academy students recognized

Several Akiva Academy middle school students who were recognized in the Jewish Community Relations Council of the Youngstown Area Jewish Federation’s annual Holocaust Writing, Art, and Multimedia Contest.

This year’s contest included submissions from students across the Mahoning and Shenango Valleys, with a highly competitive pool of entries spanning multiple schools and districts. Akiva Academy students were well represented among the top selections, earning multiple placements across divisions.

The following students were recognized:

• London Cowan – First Place, Grade 7–8 Poetry Division
  • Noah Johnson – Fourth Place, Grade 7–8 Poetry Division
  • Rebecca Sakelaris – First Place, Grade 7–8 Essay Division
  • Roei Sigler – Third Place, Grade 7–8 Essay Division
  • Joshua Martin – Fourth Place, Grade 7–8 Essay Division
  • Sarah Baquero – Second Place, Grade 7–8 Multimedia Division

These results reflect both the strength of student work and the effectiveness of instruction in fostering critical thinking, historical understanding, and written expression. Students engaged deeply with complex historical content, demonstrating the ability to analyze, reflect, and communicate ideas with clarity and purpose.

Participation in this contest also supports Akiva Academy’s broader mission of Holocaust education by encouraging students to connect personally with historical narratives while developing their academic and creative skills.

Akiva leadership commends these students for their effort and achievement, and recognizes the continued importance of providing opportunities for meaningful, interdisciplinary learning experiences.