About the contest
NCSC's Civics Education Essay Contest gives 3rd-12th grade students the opportunity to understand and explain the importance and the role of the United States government.
The contest question is based on the American Bar Association's annual Law Day theme, which in 2023 is "Cornerstones of Democracy: Civics, Civility, and Collaboration."
Contest history
2022
Question: Which Amendment to the U.S. Constitution has made the biggest difference in people’s lives? Explain how and why.
2021
Question: What does the rule of law mean to you?
Read the press release.
Read the winning entries.
2020
Questions:
Elementary/Middle school: Why is it so important that all citizens have the right to vote?
High school: Is voting a right, privilege or responsibility? Why?
Read the press release.
Read the winning entries.
2019
Questions: Should there be limits to free speech? Why or why not?
Read the press release.
Read the winning entries.
2018
Question: Why did the Founding Fathers create the three branches of government?”
Read the press release.
Read the winning entries.
2017
Question: What does it mean to be a U.S. citizen?
Read the press release.
Read the winning entries.
2016
Question: In your own words, what are the Miranda Rights and why are they important?
Read the press release.
Read the winning entries.
2015
Questions:
Elementary school: What should you do if you or a classmate are being bullied?
Middle school: Why is bullying an issue that needs to be addressed? What can you, your school, your parents and your classmates do to stop it?
Read the press release.
Read the winning entries.
2014
What is civics education and why is it important?