Members of the Society of Presidential Descendants gathered recently at the Harry S. Truman Little White House to honor the 2026 Student Essay Contest winners. Third place was awarded to Key West High School 10th grader, Matthew Barrett, for the powerful essay, “Jimmy Carter: His Life and His Impact on the Florida Keys,” earning a $500 prize.
Presidential descendants including Amy Carter, James Earl Carter III, Josh Carter, Susan Ford Bales, and Clifton Truman Daniel were on hand to share reflections on the life and legacy of Jimmy Carter.
Caroline Bleske, Social Studies Coordinator for the Monroe County School District said, “Today’s students are not just learning history, they are connecting to it, reflecting on it, and carrying its lessons forward.”
A proud moment for our students and a powerful reminder that history lives on through the next generation.