Auburn Riverside High senior Brandon deJong captured first place out of the 1,200 student essays submitted to the Washington Education Association Teacher to Remember statewide contest.

DeJong and his competitors were required to write about a teacher who made a difference in their lives. He decided to write about his science teacher, Judy Shaw, who, according to deJong, “has been very motivating and helped me through my high school years.”

In addition to teaching deJong freshman biology and AP biology, Shaw also helped deJong complete his Eagle Scout project, which was comprised of informational kiosks and educational signs about the four ecosystems represented in Auburn’s Roegner Park.

For the PLU-bound deJong, the most important thing about winning the essay contest was having the chance to honor his teacher.

“I’ve learned about being humble when you reflect on your success and thinking of all the people who have helped shape your qualities and learning,” deJong said. “I’ve learned that how you approach your homework and assignments will help you succeed in life.”