The Secretary of State’s Office is excited to continue the popular student program, the Maine Constitution Essay and Poster Contest. This program is designed to promote the history of Maine, an understanding of 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, while the essay topic for students in grades 9-12 is the importance of voting and democracy.
The student submitting the top entry in each category will be invited to be the Secretary of State’s guest for a day in Augusta along with his or her class. These students will be able to view the Maine Constitution, a particular honor, since it is only removed from its special vault on very few occasions. The students may also visit the Maine State Museum and the State House.
Contest rules and a registration form are available at: www.maine.gov/sos/kids/student-programs/const_essay.htm. The deadline for receipt of entries is March 11. Entries may be mailed to 148 SHS, Augusta, ME, 04333-0148; emailed to sos.office@maine.gov; or faxed to 287-8598. To learn more about other student programs offered by the Office of the Secretary of State, visit www.maine.gov/sos/kids/index.htm.