Centennial
Elementary School
Centennial First Grader Honored at MLK Diversity Celebration
![First grader Kiara Shipchandler stands beside the “The Dream Is Alive” exhibit wall with three colorful artworks celebrating Martin Luther King Jr.’s message.]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1771520591/pisdedu/spfh6ihahobpp6bsg6qv/KairaS_HonoredAtMLKDiversityCelebration.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1771520591/pisdedu/spfh6ihahobpp6bsg6qv/KairaS_HonoredAtMLKDiversityCelebration.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1771520591/pisdedu/spfh6ihahobpp6bsg6qv/KairaS_HonoredAtMLKDiversityCelebration.png","width":700}])
Centennial Elementary is proud to celebrate first grader Kiara Shipchandler as one of six winners in the 2026 Plano Independent School District Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration Writing Contest, sponsored by Plano ISD and the Plano ISD Education Foundation. Kiara’s writing stood out for its creativity, thoughtful message, and connection to Dr. King’s legacy of kindness, courage, and equality. Her work reflects the voices of young learners who are already thinking about how they can make the world a better place.
Kiara was recognized alongside fellow winners from across the district, representing each grade level from kindergarten through fifth grade. The MLK Diversity Celebration Writing Contest honors students who express Dr. King’s message of hope, unity, and service through their writing. Centennial is thrilled to see Kiara’s hard work and talent celebrated at the district level.
As a contest winner, Kiara and her family were invited to attend the 39th Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration on Thursday, January 22, 2026, at the Robinson Fine Arts Center. We are so proud of Kiara for representing Centennial Elementary with excellence and for sharing her powerful ideas through her writing. Congratulations, Kiara!