Embedded Files
Plainfield High School Media Center
Student Contests
Topics:
The Truth About Tariffs: Who Really Pays?
The Birthright Citizenship Debate
Time's Up? Should Congress Have Term Limits?
America at 250: Why It Matters to Me (essay/video contest only)
Due March 13, 2026
Eligibility & Divisions
Middle School Division: Grades 5-8
High School Division: Grades 9-12
Residency: U.S., Canada, or U.S. military address
Essay Requirements
Length: 500-1,000 words
Topic: Must address one of the four prompts
Originality: Essays must be students’ own work. Plagiarism or AI-generated content will be disqualified.
Interview: Students whose submissions reach the final phase of judging must take part in brief remote interviews to discuss their essays. Students must have some availability during the week of May 17-23.
Due March 13, 2026
Video Requirements
Length: 1-3 minutes
Topic: Must address one of the four prompts
Originality: Plagiarism or AI-generated content will be disqualified.
Teamwork: Students may work together, but only the student on the entry form will be eligible to receive a prize.
Eligibility & Divisions
Middle School Division: Grades 5-8
High School Division: Grades 9-12
College Division: Undergraduate students
Residency: U.S., Canada, or U.S. military address
Due January 9, 2026
Eligibility & Divisions
High School Division: Grades 9-12
Residency: U.S., Canada, or U.S. military address
Key Dates
Submission Deadline: January 9, 2026 by 11:59PM ET
Winners Announced: February 20, 2026
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