The Maine Secretary of State’s Office is inviting students to enter its Maine Constitution Essay and Poster Contest. The contest promotes understanding of the history of Maine, the Maine Constitution, and the importance of democracy and voting.
This contest is open to students at all grade levels. Those in grades K-3 may participate in a poster contest depicting official Maine symbols. Students in grades 4 and 5 are invited to draw posters with a Maine history theme. Students in grades 6-12 are encouraged to participate in essay contests. The essay topic for students in grades 6-8 is the Maine Constitution and the essay topic for students in grades 9-12 is the importance of voting and democracy.
The Secretary of State’s kids’ page offers a good starting point for interested teachers and students. This web site is intended as a supplement to classroom studies and it can be a great resource for students as they prepare their posters or essays.
A distinguished panel of judges reviews the entries and selects a winner in each category. Each of the four winners will be invited to be the Secretary of State’s guest for a day in Augusta. These students will be able to view the Maine Constitution, a particular honor since it is only removed from its vault on special occasions.
Contest rules and a registration form are available here. The deadline for receipt of entries is March 6. Entries can be emailed to sos.office@maine.gov, faxed to 287-8598 or sent by mail to 148 SHS, Augusta, ME, 04333-0148. For more information, visit the Secretary of State’s website or call 626-8400.