Elementary Education graduate Mara Moettus was named winner of the 2023 John Horrworth Children’s Book Award at the Children's Literature book contest judging in May. Four judges used virtual platforms to watch and listen to student contestants read their original children's books.
Dr. Kim Sloan, instructor for the program’s Children's Literature course, conducted the children's book writing project, which culminates in this annual competition with awards determined by a panel of judges. The winner receives $500, the second place winner receives $300, and the third place winner receives $100. Ms. Moettus won for her book Olena and the Ukrainian Tooth. Scott Gellman won second place for his book Max Mullins is a Total Jerk. Kari Anderson won third place for her book The Story of the Small, but Mighty Corgi.
In addition, Ms. Moettus was recognized as GW's "Distinguished Teacher Candidate" among other outstanding new teachers selected from area universities at the Maryland Association of Teacher Educators virtual annual awards ceremony in April 2023.