At Tip-Top Brain, we don’t just talk about supporting student growth—we show up for it. Whether we’re leading after-school sessions, running our jam-packed summer camp, or partnering with incredible organizations, we believe in giving students every opportunity to shine.
So when the team at Projekt NYC, a local nonprofit doing amazing work in our community, reached out about their Read & Write to Win contest for National Reading Month, we didn’t hesitate to say yes. As an education center rooted in Astoria, we’re always eager to support initiatives that inspire creativity, confidence, and connection in students.
Making Literacy Fun (and Competitive!)
The contest invited middle schoolers across Queens’ District 30 to choose a book from a curated list representing all 50 states and write a thoughtful, two-paragraph review. With over 130 entries submitted, it was clear just how many young readers were excited to participate!
Celebrating the Winner at IS 141
On Friday, April 11, we had the joy of visiting IS 141 to celebrate the Grand Prize Winner, 8th grader Ashlyn Objio, who wowed everyone with her review of The Creeping of Dogwood House by Eden Royce. We joined her principal, family, and Ted Psahos, Executive Director of Projekt NYC, to present her well-deserved prize—and we couldn’t have been prouder.
Why This Matters
In today’s screen-saturated world, opportunities like this are more important than ever. Encouraging students to slow down, connect with a great book, and reflect on it thoughtfully is something we’re always going to stand behind. It’s what Tip-Top Brain is all about—helping students grow academically and personally, through meaningful, real-world engagement.
Catch the Full Story
We’re so honored that this event—and our role in it—has been featured in not one, but two local publications! Dive into the details and celebrate these incredible students with us:
📰 QNS.com – “Middle schoolers win big in reading month competition”
📰 Queens Gazette – “Local Middle School Students Win Big in Projekt NYC’s ‘Read & Write to Win’ Contest”
Give them a read—you’ll be just as inspired by these students and their stories as we were.
Shoutout to Projekt NYC
Huge thanks to Projekt NYC for spearheading this effort and inviting us to be a part of it. They’re doing meaningful, grassroots work that uplifts youth all across our neighborhood. If you haven’t already, we highly recommend checking them out and following along with their incredible community initiatives.
🌐 Website: projektnyc.org
📧 Email: [email protected]
Let’s Keep Lifting Young Voices
This contest is just one of the many ways we work to support student growth both inside and outside the classroom. At Tip-Top Brain, we’re proud to partner with organizations like Projekt NYC to help students think critically, express themselves, and feel empowered in their learning journey.
Want a closer look at how we keep learning fun, meaningful, and community-driven?
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