Duchesne Student Competes for State Title
MEXICO, Mo — Teens from across the state of Missouri, their pageant directors, and families will travel to the heart of Missouri on June 10 to kick off a week filled with rehearsals, talent performances, interviews, and evening gowns at Missouri Military Academy as Miss Missouri’s Teen kicks off its 19th year.
The Miss Missouri’s Teen class of 2024 includes Miss Columbia’s Teen Bridget Caldwell. She is the daughter of Scott and Tara Caldwell of Florissant. Bridget is a student at Duchesne High School in St. Charles. As a member of the Sash competition group she will have a private interview with the judges on Tuesday afternoon, an on-stage question, and an evening gown during the Thursday evening preliminary competition. She will compete in fitness on Thursday in the second group, and during Wednesday’s preliminary competition, Bridget will perform her talent.
Bridget’s title covers the Columbia area. Since she was crowned this winter, she has attended a variety of service projects and appearances throughout the state, focusing primarily on her service initiative, “Bridge the Gap Between Youth and Heroes.” Through this initiative, she has encouraged youth and teens to volunteer with organizations supporting veterans and active-duty service members. Some of her service highlights include appearances at the Honor Flight, laying wreaths for Wreaths Across America, and collecting toys for Toys For Tots.
This is not Bridget’s first time competing at Miss Missouri’s Teen. Last year, she received numerous preliminary awards and was named the first runner-up to Gracyn Rouse of Thayer.
Pageant week will begin with a kick-off brunch on Monday, June 10, when the candidates are recognized for their various service projects and achievements. Throughout the week, the teens will participate in a wide variety of activities, ending on Saturday afternoon with a meet and greet held in downtown Mexico.
The preliminary competition begins Tuesday, June 11, and will continue through Thursday, June 13. The organization will crown the new Miss Missouri’s Teen on Friday night, June 14. After being crowned by reigning Miss Missouri’s Teen, Gracyn Rouse, the new Miss Missouri’s Teen will begin preparations to compete nationally.
The Miss Missouri Scholarship Organization is one of the largest providers of scholarships to young women in the state. This year, the organization will award $85,000 in scholarships between the Miss and Outstanding Teen programs.
Tickets for the Miss Missouri and Miss Missouri’s Teen Pageants and tickets for the week’s special events are available through the Mexico Area Chamber of Commerce at 100 West Jackson Street or by calling 573-581-2765.