MLK Essay Contest Rules – Read Carefully Before Submitting
• Winners will be chosen from middle and high school categories.
• The essay must consist of no more than 500 words.
• All essays must be in the writer's own voice. Plagiarism is strictly prohibited, and the use of any assistance or content from AI sources is not allowed.
• The essay contest is open to middle and high school entries and must be submitted on 8½” x 11” white background, double-spaced, and typed using a 12pt. font.
• One-Time Winner Policy: To ensure broad participation and recognition of many students, a student may receive a First, Second, or Third Place award only once per division.
• Only one entry per student and essays must be submitted by Friday, December 19, 2025 at 5pm.  Late submissions will not be accepted.
• All entries MUST include a cover page listing the student’s full name, grade level, school name, school district, home address, email and contact phone number. Entries submitted without a complete cover page will be disqualified from the competition - no exceptions.
• All judging is final. Winners will be notified the week of January 12, 2026 via email and/or telephone. 
• Each winner will receive a complimentary ticket to the event, along with one guest ticket. Additional guests are welcome to attend with the purchase of a ticket.
• Any essay determined to be in violation of the essay rules will be disqualified.