Winners of the Steelworkers’ Archives Richard Check Legacy Writing Contest for 2024-25 were announced at a BASD school board meeting Oct. 6, with students and their families present for the revelation.

BASD assistant superintendent and chief academic officer Maureen Leeson made the announcement on behalf of the Archives, who were represented by president Joe Mayer and treasurer Jill Schennum.

Student winners submitted their essays as fifth graders attending Clearview ES, with guidance from principal Heather Bennett-Knerr and fifth grade teachers Jennifer Indalecio and Jeff Markham. They are now sixth grade students at Nitschmann MS.

Winners announced are Arabella Zumba - First place, Amelia Cortez - Second place, Emma Maderas - Third place, and Amirah Daniello - honorable mention.

Richard Check was a 43 year steelworker who passed away in November 2018. Check was active in the Steelworkers’ Archives and often spoke at gatherings about his career working in the Bethlehem Plant.