MARTINSVILLE, VA – Jordin Hernandez Machuca, a seventh grader at Martinsville Middle School, was one of eight regional winners of the annual statewide "If I Were a Mayor."
Jordin won Region 2 that spanned from Allegheny County to Henry County.
The contest drew in over 1,000 entries from seventh graders across the state.
The challenge was for students to to define a problem, listen to at least three community members, decide if they should use community member ideas, and then put it all together.
“I feel great about winning the essay contest because I came to this country not knowing a word of English,” said Jordin. “I never thought that I would be chosen among many other students for this honor. I would like to thank Mr. Manns, Mrs. Rorrer, and my parents for their support.”
His winning essay focused on combatting the challenges of burdensome public transportation costs.
“I am very proud of the accomplishments made by Jordin this year,” said MMS English Teacher Melanie Rorrer. “It has been amazing to see his growth as a student.”
In addition to a framed certificate, each regional winner will receive a check for $150 and be featured in the Virginia Municipal League’s Virginia Town & City magazine.
“Our MCPS division is very excited and proud of Jordin’s work,” said superintendent Dr. Zeb Talley “He is an outstanding student and exemplifies what our students can accomplish. Martinsville Middle School has produced the winner three consecutive years. We will continue our path to academic excellence!”