A third-grade Plano ISD student was named a top-five national finalist for Google’s 17th annual Doodle for Google competition. David Bae of Skaggs Elementary is this year’s only finalist in Texas, according to a Plano ISD press release.
As a finalist, Bae will receive a $10,000 college scholarship, and his piece is being featured on the Doodle for Google contest page. Google also sent him a Chromebook, a trophy and other merchandise, according to the release.
Voting in the competition is open and continues until April 29. A winner will be announced on May 12. They will receive an additional $45,000 college scholarship and a $50,000 technology package for their school.
The news was announced in a surprise ceremony at Skaggs Elementary on April 16, according to the release. Plano ISD board members, Superintendent Dr. Theresa Williams, and Plano Mayor John Muns were in attendance.
“We are so proud of David for being named a national Doodle for Google finalist,” said Dr. Williams at the ceremony. “This incredible achievement exemplifies his creativity, determination and the strength of our visual arts programs in Plano ISD.”
NBA All-Star forward Giannis Antetokounmpo served as a judge in this year’s contest and congratulated Bae in a video message played during the ceremony.
The eight-year-old was picked out of thousands of entries, according to the release. The theme for the competition was “My superpower is.” Bae’s artwork was titled “Slow and Steady Wins the Peak.”
Bae’s piece focused on his endurance and not giving up, including an ode to the story of the tortoise versus the hare, highlighting obstacles and milestones in the pursuit of persistence.