FAIRMONT – State Treasurer John Perdue will present a $500 check to Jayenne Elementary Principal Andy Neptune 10:45 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 2 at the school, to acknowledge student Joseph Obuchowski’s triumph in a regional essay contest.

A kindergarten student, Joseph won his region’s age group by participating in an essay contest called “When I Grow Up . . . ,” jointly sponsored by Treasurer Perdue and The Hartford. The Hartford administers West Virginia’s SMART529 college savings program.

Joseph wrote that he wanted to be an engineer. The Hartford awarded him $500 at a ceremony in December, to start a SMART529 college savings account. Tuesday’s school award, also from The Hartford, is designed to honor the school for turning out such a scholar. The school may use it for whatever it desires.

“Young Joseph is well deserving of this award, and so is the school,” Treasurer Perdue said. “Joseph’s reward is being invested in a SMART529 account. I trust Principal Neptune already has a purpose in mind for the school’s money.”

Nearly 3,000 students have participated in the first three “When I Grow Up . . .” contests. Fifteen age group winners are awarded $500 each for winning the essay portion.

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