Round Rock ISD is proud to celebrate the achievements of two young authors from Cactus Ranch Elementary who earned first-place honors in the 2025 Austin PBS Writers Contest.

Kannan A., a fourth-grade student, and Niva A., a first-grade student, both secured first place in their respective grade levels. They stood out among a record-breaking 407 entries submitted by elementary students across Central Texas. The contest received 91 entries in the fourth-grade category and 60 in the first-grade category.

The annual Austin PBS Writers Contest encourages creativity and storytelling among young students by providing a platform for them to develop strong communication skills, an essential tool for success in today’s world. This year’s winners were honored during a celebration at the Austin PBS Studio, where students had the opportunity to showcase their work and meet other young writers.

“We’re incredibly fortunate that Round Rock ISD and Cactus Ranch Elementary School foster an environment that encourages and nurtures this important skill,” said one parent. “We want to give a special thanks to everyone who motivated and guided our students to participate in this contest.”