A simple classroom assignment turned into a statewide victory for Casey Dozier, who wrapped up her eighth-grade year at Lyles Middle School by earning first place in the Texas InvestWrite essay competition. She made history as the first GISD student ever to win the InvestWrite State title, a milestone that sets the bar high for future students.

Casey’s journey began with the Stock Market Game, a program that gives students a hands-on introduction to investing. At first, she didn’t know much about stocks and only thought it seemed like “an interesting way to make money” without having to work in the traditional sense. As the game unfolded, she learned that markets could drop fast and take time to bounce back, and that smart investing takes more than picking the “green” stocks.

When it came time to write her InvestWrite essay, Casey crafted a fictional investment portfolio inspired by advice from her mom. “She wanted me to have an easy way to make money without working like she does,” Casey said. Her plan focused on building residual income, with a vision of retiring early and focusing on family.

The essay was not without its challenges. Casey found herself adding words and restructuring paragraphs, but her preparation in English class and determination paid off. She also credits her friends for motivating her to take part, noting that encouragement made a big difference. “Even if I don’t think I’ll win, I should still try,” she reflected.

At first, Casey thought the contest was schoolwide. When she realized it was a national competition, she was stunned to win the Texas title. The excitement hit hardest when she saw the trophy — a prize she says stands out from the others she has earned.

Now a freshman at Lakeview Centennial High School and part of the school’s early college program, Casey is eager to learn more about business and investing. She hopes those skills will one day help her own property and create financial freedom for herself and her family.

Outside of academics, Casey’s creativity shines. She enjoys anime, drawing, painting, crocheting, and crafting, often tackling projects inspired by her favorite shows or music. She also values the friendships that helped her grow from a quiet sixth grader into a student willing to take risks and try new opportunities.

If given $10,000 today, Casey says she would split it with her mom, buying clothes and shoes before saving the rest. It is a gesture that reflects the same thoughtfulness and drive that brought her statewide recognition and highlights the unmatched potential GISD students have to turn opportunities into achievements.

Her advice to other students is simple: “If you get the chance to try something, especially something academic, do it.”