Clear Stream Avenue Elementary School recently honored 12 students who earned top spots in the National PTA Reflections Program, including fourth-grader Khaden Daley who placed first in the literature category and was named a Nassau Regional Finalist.

The National PTA offers the program each year to give students the opportunity to showcase their art and creativity in the areas of dance choreography, film production, literature, music composition, photography and the visual arts. Throughout Long Island and the nation, thousands of students submit their original artwork to be judged for the PTA’s highest honor. This year’s theme entitled “Our Story,” asked students to submit pieces that reflected on who they are and their unique stories.

Daley won for his piece entitled “My Olympics,” where he shared some of the struggles that he has had growing up. Through the use of symbolism and metaphors, Daley represented the different decathlon sports that athletes play in the Olympics and the hurdles that he has had to overcome in school and in his personal life to achieve his goals. His story resonated with the judges for his honesty and candor in portraying his views on life.  

“I never thought I would get this far, but I’m glad I did,” said Daley. Since second grade, Daley has been writing and has volumes of books at home, with fictional and non-fictional stories that he has written.

“We are very proud of Khaden,” said Principal John Singleton. “We wish him the best of luck in the future.”