A Straley Elementary fourth grader accepted a $500 prize on behalf of her school Tuesday, as part of the “When I Grow Up” State Treasurer’s Office essay contest.

Fourth-grade student Lyndzee Metz wrote in her essay that she would like to be a baker when she grows up. Metz accepted the money on behalf of her school and will receive $500 herself for winning her age group regional. Schoolchildren from across the state participate annually in the event.  

“I’m very happy to present this to Straley Elementary while acknowledging Lyndzee’s outstanding work,” State Treasurer John Perdue said. “I wish her the best as she receives her personal prize and can’t wait to see her in Charleston later this year.”  

Her personal $500 will be invested in a SMART529 college savings plan and recognized at a statewide awards ceremony in Charleston this fall. At that time, each student will be entered into a random drawing for a chance to win the grand prize, a total of $5,000 invested into a SMART529 account.

SMART529 is West Virginia’s college savings program issued by the West Virginia College Prepaid Tuition and Savings Program Board of Trustees and is administered by Hartford Life. For more information, log onto www.wvtreasury.com or www.SMART529.com.