“The contest is a great way for us, as adults in the building, to explore what our kids are dreaming about,” said Ryan Flaherty, principal. “It’s also a good exercise for students to practice their writing and public speaking skills.”

This year, more than 80 entries were submitted. Students submitted their written speeches, the top 12 were selected and those students then delivered their speeches verbally to a panel of judges.

Nine-year-old third-grader, Francisco Chilel-Chavez, won this year’s “Duncombe Dream” contest. His dream is “that all cultures can be equal, live in peace and trust God.”

Chilel-Chavez took direction from Martin Luther King, sharing in his speech, “Martin Luther King Jr. trusted in God. He began a march. He never gave up. He fell, but he stood back up. So, we can trust in God to give us peace.” Chilel-Chavez said if he had the chance to speak to King he would talk to him about how he stood up for what he believed in.

In his speech, Chilel-Chavez stated he would donate to charity to help those who don’t have money for what they need, would build homeless shelters for those who have nowhere to live and would open churches so people would trust in God. He said as a Christian those things are all important to him.

Chilel-Chavez said he was nervous when presenting to the judges. He shared that afterward, when one of the judges told him, “You did amazing,” it made him feel good and more confident.

“I was nervous to read my speech,” he said. “I had not shared my dreams with anyone but my parents before. I think sharing my dreams helps others know me better. I’m proud I participated and I’m proud I won.”

Upon learning Chilel-Chavez won, his teacher, Shannon Grossnickle said, “My reaction was instant pride. He took time to write such a fantastic speech showing how he wanted the world to be better for everyone no matter their circumstances. It just made my teacher heart burst.”

She continued by saying, “Francisco is a humble leader. He is a student who leads by example and is someone the other students look up to. He is a hard worker and takes pride in everything he does. He is a role model for all and I could not be more honored to have him in my classroom.”

Flaherty said the students who presented to the judges were nervous, but all did a really great job. He said the contest showed that Duncombe students have perseverance and grit.

“I’m proud of Francisco and all the students who read their speeches to the judges,” Flaherty said. “They showed they have courage to face and do hard things. These kids are the quiet warriors in a world that so badly needs them right now. They are going to change our world.”