Lux's essay, "Why Students Are Forced to Fight Hunger Themselves," earned recognition for its thoughtful research, personal storytelling, and civic engagement. The annual contest challenges students to write persuasive open letters about issues they care about while demonstrating strong evidence-based writing and critical thinking.
Addressed to members of Congress, Lux's letter draws from her personal experiences with food insecurity, volunteer work at local soup kitchens and food pantries, and research on federal food assistance programs.
The opportunity began after Sierra Vista High School English teacher Ms. Gutierrez encouraged students to explore essay competitions. During spring break, Lux came across the New York Times contest and decided to submit.
"I thought it would be good to write about an issue that I care about," Lux said. "I've always enjoyed writing, so I decided to apply and also sent the letter to my English teacher, Ms. Gutierrez, and Community Schools advisor, Ms. Durfee.”
Writing has long been one of Lux's passions. Last summer, she began writing a thriller crime mystery novel and says she enjoys both creative writing and researching real-world issues. While she believes artificial intelligence can be a useful tool for brainstorming ideas and outlines, she feels creative and formal writing should remain authentic and reflect a writer's own voice.
When contest winners were announced, Lux initially believed she had fallen just short of winning.
"I remember checking my email a lot," she said. "The announcement said I was in the top 20 percent of entries, so I thought I didn't win. Then I read the article and saw my name listed among the seven winners."
A Baldwin Park Unified student since third grade, Lux has also dedicated herself to serving others. During her sophomore year, she founded Sierra Vista High School's Hand to Hunger Club, which organizes food drives and volunteers at local soup kitchens and community organizations.
"I decided to do it because food insecurity is a universal issue where I knew I could help make an impact in our community," Lux said.
As she prepares to begin her senior year, Lux looks forward to taking AP Biology, AP English Literature, and Advanced Sports Medicine while earning her CPR certification. She also hopes to continue expanding the clubs she is involved in, attend school events, and make the most of her final year at Sierra Vista High School.
"This recognition is an incredible accomplishment and reflects the power of student voice," Sierra Vista High School Principal Vince Pratt said. "We are proud to see one of our shining Dons recognized at the national level."
Lux also praised local Baldwin Park support available to families, including BPUSD’s year-round free school meals, community food distributions, school pantries and Sierra Vista High School's Community Schools Center.
"I think we have a lot to offer our community," Lux said. "People shouldn't be afraid to ask for help or ask where they can find resources."
After graduation, Lux hopes to attend Yale University, where she plans to study biology on a pre-med track or pursue healthcare law.
Lux will also be recognized by the Baldwin Park Unified Board of Education during its regular Board meeting on Tuesday, July 21, at 6 p.m.
Lux's essay, "Why Students Are Forced to Fight Hunger Themselves," can be read on The New York Times website: https://www.nytimes.com/2026/06/23/learning/the-winners-of-our-third-annual-open-letter-contest.html
Photos
Student, Mindy Lux at Sierra Vista High School, 2026