GVHS Writer Has Respect of Teachers Near and Far

Megan O'Keefe is an exceptional writer. That's the conclusion reached by her teachers at Great Valley High School, who nominated her to represent the school in a writing contest sponsored by the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE).

The NCTE selected O'Keefe, a senior, as one of the recipients of their annual Achievement Awards in Writing. GVHS English teacher Thomas Esterly presented a certificate of achievement to her at the Oct. 17 school board meeting.

"For anyone who has had the pleasure of teaching Megan, it comes as no surprise that she be awarded this," said Esterly, a member of NCTE. "She has a strong intellectual curiosity."

Of the 1,649 students nominated by their respective schools to participate in the NCTE contest in 2011, only about 520 were given the award. Students competing in the contest had to write two essays—one prepared and one on the spot.

"That energy she brings into the classroom is the same energy that’s reflected in her writing," Esterly said. "To have her in the classroom is truly an honor."