Viewmont Elementary fifth-grader Walter Frank was brainstorming ideas when he wondered what he could create for the 2024 Make Your Mark bookmark contest.

The contest, sponsored by my529, Utah’s state-sponsored higher-education investment plan, invited students from across the state to submit their own original bookmark designs.

“I was brainstorming, and then I remembered how cool some parts of the sky are,” the 11 year old said. “I like it at night, when you can see the stars stand out in the dark skies.”

This idea became the inspiration for his bookmark design. Using black markers, Walter created a dark sky, then added acrylic paint to capture the glowing light from the stars. He submitted his design for the contest in September.

Recently, Walter received the exciting news. He learned he won after getting a text from his mom, who had received an email with his congratulations. He read the email later that afternoon and shared the good news with his dad and grandparents.

“We’re thrilled Walter won,” Viewmont Elementary librarian Emilee Barnett said.

She received several of Walter’s bookmarks at the school and added his winning design will be featured on the My529 website.

Walter is one of two students in the fourth- to sixth-grade category to win a $2,000 college savings scholarship. Eight scholarships were awarded statewide.

Walter’s love for art began at a young age — he started painting when he was just 6 or 7. With the art supplies given to him by Principal Lia Smith, he can continue developing his talents.

“Walter has an incredible work ethic and talent,” she said. “He’s a devoted student, and I’m thrilled to have that recognized at this level.” 

His teacher, Leigh Nelsen, shares this praise, highlighting Walter’s qualities beyond his artistic abilities.

“Walter is an exemplary student and person,” she said. “He is thoughtful, positive and a good friend to his classmates.”

The youngster enjoys reading fantasy books and graphic novels. He’s currently immersed in the seventh book of the “Harry Potter” series and now has his own special bookmark to keep his place.

While Walter has submitted entries to the PTA Reflections drawing and painting contests in the past, this year he decided to enter a photograph he had taken, after carefully arranging his subject.

“I like to enter art contests,” he said. “I was surprised I won this one.”λ