[Source – newbedfordlight.org]
Essay Contest Details Announced
The New Bedford Light has officially launched its first-ever student essay contest, inviting high school students from New Bedford and across the South Coast region to participate. This exciting opportunity encourages students to showcase their writing skills while exploring a relevant educational issue. The contest is open to students from any school in the region, specifically focusing on the future of education in Massachusetts.
Participants must write a 300-500 word essay responding to the prompt: Should Massachusetts voters remove 10th-grade MCAS tests as a graduation requirement? The contest offers a chance for young writers to express their views on this significant topic, which will appear on the state’s upcoming ballot. The winning essay will not only be published in The Light but will also earn the writer a $100 cash prize. Students have until noon Friday, November 1, to submit their essays.
Submission Process and Guidelines
High schoolers interested in joining the contest must submit their typed essays via email to info@newbedfordlight.org, using the subject line ‘Essay Submission.’ The contest is open to all high school students in the region, but each student may only submit one entry. All essays must be original works, written in English, with any external quotes or sources properly attributed. In addition to the essay, students must provide their full name, current school, grade level as of September 2024, and a phone number.
Upon submission, all entries become the property of The New Bedford Light, with the winning essay set to be published online. Other notable submissions may also be featured on the website, either in part or in full, with the authors credited for their work.
Inspiration and Upcoming Events
For students seeking inspiration for their essays, The New Bedford Light encourages attendance at its October 17 Community Conversations event. The discussion, held at Kilburn Mill at 6 p.m., will feature a panel of experts from across Massachusetts who will discuss the upcoming ballot question on removing the MCAS graduation requirement. This event provides a valuable opportunity for students to gain insights and perspectives on the issue from knowledgeable professionals, which may help shape their arguments for the contest.
