Cambria County America 250 Essay Contest

In celebration of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the Cambria County America 250 essay contest has been announced for area students.

The contest, which is is sponsored by the Cambria County America 250 committee, invites students to reflect on the significance of that milestone in American history. It’s also an opportunity for them to explore themes of freedom, democracy and the enduring legacy of the Declaration of Independence.

A selection of essays will be published in The Tribune-Democrat.

ESSAY REQUIREMENTS

Essays must be original, typed in 12-point font and double-spaced. The cover page must include the student’s name, grade level, school name and contract information.

They are to be submitted to the schools by Feb. 12. Schools will determine the top three essays in each category to be judged. Winners will be notified by March 31.

•••

Middle School (fourth - eighth grades):

Students in middle school can choose one of the following themes:

• What does the Declaration of Independence mean to me today?

• Who is a hero of the American Revolution and why should we remember them?

• Why is it important to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence?

Word limit: 300-500 words

For middle school, the first-place winner will receive $300, second place is $200 and third place is $100.

•••

High School (ninth - 12th grades):

 Students in high school can choose one of the following themes:

• How did the Declaration of Independence shape the foundation of the United States?

• In what ways can young people today uphold the values of the Declaration of Independence?

• What lessons from the Declaration of Independence are most relevant in America today?

Word limit: 500-700 words

High school winners will receive $1,500 for first place, $1,000 for second place and $500 for third place.

Upload all essays below. Please make sure to name the files to include the student's name, and that each essay includes a cover sheet. There is no limit on the number of essays that may be uploaded per submission.