Fourth Grader’s Essay on Autism Earns National Award

A Glendora fourth grader’s essay about growing up with autism was selected for recognition among thousands of student entries across the nation in the PTA’s Reflections Program.

Daniel Roman, 9, of was one of 188 students across the nation to be recognized in the program, which honors art entries from students in preschool through 12th grade in six categories – Dance Choreography, Film Production, Literature, Musical Composition, Photography and Visual Arts.  

This year’s theme was “Diversity means…” Roman’s essay, "Being Different Is Cool!" earned the Award of Excellence in literature, one of 72 students across the nation to earn the award across the six categories. Another 116 students won Awards of Merit.

In his essay Roman writes:

“To me diversity means that it’s okay to be different. I think I knew what diversity meant long before I ever heard the word. You see I have autism. Having autism has always made me different from other children.”  

A complete list of winners is available at www.PTA.org/ReflectionsWinners. The artwork will be showcased in a virtual gallery that will be live later this year.  

Roman was one of 18 students in the to be recognized in the district competition. The 18 district winners were selected from 633 entries from the eight different schools.