DAR chapter honors student writers, teacher at education reception
Wantage. The Chinkchewunska Chapter of the DAR recognized four student essayists and a local history teacher for excellence in writing and education.
| 17 Apr 2026 | 12:34
From left, Heather Sandford, NJDAR State Chair of American History; Vanessa Gordon, grade 7; Chapter Winner and 2nd place NJ State grade 7 winner; Catherine Jennings, Sparta Middle School Outstanding Teacher of American History; Shea Gallagher, Grade 6 Chapter Winner; Serena Petillo, Grade 5 Chapter Winner, 2nd place New Jersey State grade 5 Winner; Allyn Perry, Chinkchewunska Chapter Chair Essay contest and Teacher of the Year contest. Not Pictured: Seark Winter, Grade 8 Chapter winner. (
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The Chinkchewunska Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution recently hosted an education reception recognizing four student writers and a local teacher for their achievements.
Students in grades five through eight were invited to participate in an essay contest that challenged them to imagine having lunch with a signer of the United States Declaration of Independence.
Chapter members said the student honorees demonstrated creativity, historical understanding and strong writing skills in their submissions.
In addition to the student awards, the chapter honored a local American history teacher for her dedication to educating students and fostering an appreciation for the nation’s past.
Organizers said the teacher’s commitment to both her students and subject matter was evident in her work in the classroom.
DAR American History & Essay Contest Honorees
Vanessa Gordon — Grade 7 Chapter Winner; 2nd Place NJ State Winner
Catherine Jennings — Outstanding Teacher of American History (Sparta Middle School)
Shea Gallagher — Grade 6 Chapter Winner
Serena Petillo — Grade 5 Chapter Winner; 2nd Place NJ State Winner
Allyn Perry — Chapter Chair, Essay Contest & Teacher of the Year Contest
Seark Winter — Grade 8 Chapter Winner
