Two Hamilton County students have been recognized as winners in the 2026 Tennessee Civics Essay Contest, according to Tre Hargett.
Emily Hernandez Martin, a student at Hixson Middle School, placed third in the sixth-eighth grade category. Riley Swinford, who attends Baylor School, placed third in the ninth-12th grade category.
The annual contest was open to students in grades K–12 across Tennessee public, charter, private and homeschool programs. Schools were allowed to submit up to two essays per grade band. This year’s theme was “Tennessee, America at Its Best.”
“We’re proud of Emily, Riley and all of the essay contest participants,” Hargett says. “It’s a privilege to see their pride in our state and the understanding of how Tennessee has shaped our nation. Just like Tennessee represents America at its best, Emily and Riley represent Tennessee at its best.”
State Sen. Bo Watson praised the students’ achievements, saying their success reflects the importance of understanding history and civic principles.
“Tennessee has made massive contributions to the nation, and I’m proud of Emily Hernandez Martin and Riley Swinford for highlighting this fact and demonstrating their civics expertise,” says state Rep. Greg Martin. “Winning this contest is not easy, and having two victors from Hamilton County is a testament to the quality of our community’s teachers, students and schools.”
Martin and Swinford recently traveled to the state capitol to receive their awards. In addition to recognition, they each earned scholarships through the TNStars 529 College Savings Program.
A total of 4,603 students participated in this year’s contest, which is designed to encourage civic engagement and help students become informed citizens.
Source: Tennessee Secretary of State Tre Hargett