On January 21, 2019, Richmond County Schools recognized Martin Luther King Jr., essay and poster contest winners at the Annual MLK Jr., Celebration. Ellie Buck read the winning essay at the Annual MLK Jr., Celebration at the Agape Center in Ellerbe, NC. Buck is a 9th-grade student at Richmond Early College High School. Preston Coker was also recognized for his 1st place winning artwork. Preston is currently a senior at Richmond Senior High School. Other winners included: 2nd place essay— Yuliana Gonzalez, Ellerbe Middle School 8th-grade; 3rd place essay— Kimahri Johnson, Fairview Heights 5th-grade; 2nd Place poster— David Chase Woody, Washington Street Elementary School, and 3rd Place— Anahi Valazquez, Fairview Heights 5th-grade. Honorable Mentions included Molly Meachum and Sarah MacDonald.