Stella Grace Burroughs, a fourth-grade student at Fairfield Magnet School for Math and Science, was announced as the winner of the South Carolina Children’s Book Challenge (individual division) for her book “The Day That Power Took a Vacation,” selected from nearly 200 entries statewide. The award was presented during the school’s March 27 awards ceremony, and both Burroughs and her art teacher Kimberlea Daly will be honored by the South Carolina General Assembly on April 16.
The Children’s Book Challenge is sponsored by Fairfield Electric Cooperative and the Electric Cooperatives of South Carolina. Burroughs received $500 for her achievement, while Daly was awarded $250 for her guidance. The winning book was inspired by power restoration efforts following Hurricane Helene and is dedicated to Burroughs’ late uncle, who worked as a lineman. Her book will be placed in elementary school libraries across South Carolina.
Burroughs’ accomplishment highlights ongoing efforts in Fairfield County to promote education and creative opportunities among its youth. The county supports athletic activities through parks and recreation programs that offer sports, gymnastics, and health classes for various ages, as noted on the official website. Community culture is further enriched through annual festivals, art galleries, historic sites, and museums that provide entertainment and educational experiences according to the official website.
Fairfield County maintains facilities such as an airport with a 5,243-foot runway, libraries, museums, parks, and senior centers as outlined on its official website. The county has also earned recognition for its magnet school in math and science receiving the Palmetto Finest School distinction according to the official website.
Burroughs was recognized at the April 13 Fairfield County Council meeting for this accomplishment. She is the daughter of Jonathan Burroughs (Fairfield County Deputy Administrator) and Tiffany Burroughs. Fairfield County partners with entities such as Lake Marion Regional Water Agency while focusing on providing quality of life opportunities in recreation and business as noted on its official site. Sitting in South Carolina’s upper Piedmont area with industries like manufacturing alongside preserved historical features,the county continues supporting growth through workforce programs.
