Five high school students were awarded prizes this month in the annual essay contest on “What the First Amendment means to me,” one of CFAR’s signature programs that will continue under ACLUF-CT.

First prize went to Aaron Kiersh, a senior at Westport’s Staples High School, who wrote about freedom of speech on his radio show at the school’s FM radio station. His English teacher, Lis Comm, was also honored.

In second place was Ryan Baldassario of East Lyme High School. Tied for third place were Vera Soliman of East Lyme High and Jack Aldrich of Staples/Westport. Alyssa Thomas of North Branford High School received honorable mention.