Student-Led Initiative Brings New Mascot to Local Restaurant

What started out as a simple classroom idea has now turned into a real-world success story, thanks to the creativity and leadership of a group of fourth graders at Lewes Elementary, and a partnership with Lewes Oyster House.

Located in the heart of historic downtown Lewes, the restaurant is known for its tavern-inspired fare and commitment to fresh, regionally sourced ingredients, celebrating the rich tradition of Mid-Atlantic oyster houses in a welcoming, community-centered setting. Earlier this year, Lewes Oyster House was also recognized as one of USA TODAY’s Restaurants of the Year, earning a spot among the top 39 notable dining destinations in the United States.

The idea came to fruition several weeks ago, student Marlon Wilkinson-Perez approached his class with a unique proposal. After learning more about his family’s business, Marlon noticed the restaurant’s children’s menu was missing something, a mascot. With his teacher’s permission, he presented his idea to classmates, explained the restaurant’s local sourcing concept, and launched a mascot design contest amongst his peers.

The project quickly gained momentum, with students enthusiastically creating and submitting their own designs. The entire process, from concept to submissions, was led and facilitated by Marlon and his classmates. After reviewing the entries, restaurant owner Sean Corea worked with Marlon and his staff to select a winning design and reimagine the children’s menu. The winning concept, “Sammy the Shell and Precious the Pearl,” created by student Ana Morales-Henriquez, will now be featured on the menu and incorporated into the restaurant’s branding.

“The idea for Sammy the Shell and Precious the Pearl came first from the oyster, but then I decided to make them best friends since they belong together,” said Ana. “I feel proud of myself because I never thought I would win, but now I am super excited.”

Marlon said the idea stemmed from his own creativity and desire to involve his classmates. “One night I was thinking of drawing something I haven’t drawn before, and then I thought maybe I should draw something in the sea,” he said. “Then it hit me, the Lewes Oyster House should have a mascot. I knew if I did it without my friends, they would be mad, so I let my class in on it.” Reflecting on the experience, Marlon added, “I do feel proud of myself because everyone got a chance to win, and now everyone is happy.”

Sean Corea praised the students’ efforts and creativity. “All of us at Lewes Oyster House really appreciated the level of creativity in all of the students’ drawings,” he said. “Each character clearly showed the students understood the assignment and connected to our brand. While we could only choose one winner, it was a pleasure to see all of the students’ work, and we are excited to feature Sammy the Sea Shell and Precious the Pearl on our menu.”

Fourth grade teacher Brandi Townsend also highlighted the impact of the project. “This was a great example of student-driven leadership and putting ideas into action,” she said. “Marlon took initiative, engaged his classmates, and created an authentic learning experience that connected school to the real world.”

The project culminated in a classroom celebration, where the winner was announced and students shared in the excitement of seeing their ideas come to life. The new mascot will soon appear on the Lewes Oyster House children’s menu, serving as a lasting reminder of the creativity, collaboration, and innovation of these young learners.