BELLEVIEW, FL (352today.com) – Being mayor would be pretty cool, right? Think of the endless possibilities – and the responsibilities.

The City of Belleview recently invited local students to imagine leading the city by hosting an essay contest titled, “If I Were the Mayor.” The contest encouraged students in grades 4-8 to share their vision for a mayoral term from their own perspective.

As it goes, the students did not disappoint. The city says the responses they received were astonishing and thoughtful, touching on concepts such as leadership and community improvement.

City of Belleview Mayor Christine Dobkowski announced the winners of the contest at the city’s Nov. 5 commission meeting. The winners were divided into two brackets: Grades 4-5 and Grades 6-8.

Abigail Stephenson, first place winner of the grade 6-8 bracket, stands alongside Belleview Mayor Christine Dobkowski. Courtesy: City of Belleview
Elliott Stephenson, the second place winner of grade 4-8 bracket, stands alongside Belleview Mayor Christine Dobkowski. Courtesy: City of Belleview
Charlie Small, third place winner of the grade 4-8 bracket, stands alongside Belleview Mayor Christine Dobkowski. Courtesy: City of Belleview
And the winners are…

Grade 4-5:

  • 1st Place: Eyan Antich
  • 2nd Place: Elliott Stephenson
  • 3rd Place: Charlie Small
  • Honorable Mention: Vivian Larroque

Grade 6-8:

  • 1st Place: Abigail Stephenson
  • 2nd Place: Lilla Smith

The winners received a Certificate of Achievement signed by the mayor and City Administrator Sandi McKamey and a gift card on behalf of the city.

The mayor also read the essays from the first-place winners of both grade levels. She says the essays provided “true creativity” and an “understanding of the values” the city upholds.

“Each of these essays showcased a unique, thoughtful perspective on what it means to serve our community,” says Dobkowski. “The ideas these young people shared were heartfelt, insightful, and gave us a glimpse into the future leaders they may become.”

City of Belleview’s Events Manager Robert Vass stands equally astonished at the ideas presented by the students.

“It’s truly inspiring to see our youth thinking about the importance of community service and leadership. Each participant shared ideas that reflected real care for Belleview and its residents,” says Vass. “This contest not only gives students a voice but encourages them to think critically about the ways they can contribute to a better future.”