Between September and December of each year, all third-graders from the Peabody’s elementary schools visit the place of George Peabody’s birth to learn about their city’s namesake and his philanthropic ventures.  After their tour, the children are asked to write an essay on what they have learned and what they would do to make the world a better place. Of all the essays submitted, the top three are chosen and displayed in all the schools throughout the remaining school year.

This year’s winners, Lyla Carbone from West Elementary School, Leah Bresnahan from Captain Samuel Brown Elementary School, and Audrey McKenna of John E. McCarthy Elementary School, were honored during a ceremony held at the museum, where they met with city dignitaries and received gift bags from the Bank.  At this year’s ceremony, two runner-ups were also named: John Bettencourt from the St. John’s Elementary School and Ella Braz from the Center Elementary School.

As annual sponsors of the contest, North Shore Bank provides savings accounts of $150 for the first place winner, $100 for the second place winner, and $50 for the third place winner. Both runner-ups were also awarded $30 each by the bank.

Chris Pesce, North Shore Bank’s Vice President and Marketing Officer said, 

We are very proud to continue our support of this great event. We would like to congratulate, not only the students, but their parents and all of the teachers and faculty at our schools in Peabody.

Mary Lou DiSilva, Branch Manager of North Shore Bank’s Peabody Square office and also a member of the Essay Judging Committee said,

It’s always so tough to choose just three winners. These students should be very proud of themselves.  They did a great job.  I’ve judged this contest for 
the past fifteen years and it’s been such a pleasure.  But it’s getting harder and harder each year.