The 2008-2009 Improving the Lives of Children Essay Contest

The New America Foundation is looking to draw attention to the needs of children and for the next generation of policy ideas to help kids. We are inviting all public and private high school seniors in the United States to voice your opinions by writing and submitting an essay that answers the question, "You have just been elected the President of the United States. What is the most important thing you will do to improve the lives of America's children?"

This contest provides a unique opportunity for students to articulate their hopes for improving children's lives. It is your turn to tell your parents, teachers, and Washington policymakers what you think America's priorities should be.

Essays must be no longer than 600 words and must also be accompanied by the Official Entry Form. The Official Entry Form must be signed by the student, a parent or guardian, and a teacher from your school certifying that this is an original essay. Please do not write your name or school on the essay itself.

The top 25 essays as chosen by our staff will receive recognition as semi-finalists. Ten finalists will receive special recognition on the New America Foundation website. The winning essay will be selected from the finalists by a panel of distinguished judges based on clarity of thought, creativity, practicality, potential to improve the lives of children and potential to draw attention to policies that help young people. The winner will be announced in June 2009 and will receive a $2,500 prize. The winner's essay will be published and distributed by the New America Foundation.

Contest Deadline: February 20, 2009

How to Enter:

1. Read the Rules and Regulations
2. Write your essay
3. Download and complete the entry form, with signatures
4. Mail essay and entry form to address below

Essay Contest, Workforce and Family Program
New America Foundation
1630 Connecticut Ave., NW

7th floor
Washington, D.C., 20009.

A PDF copy of the Official Entry Form is available for download. For complete contest rules and regulations, please click here.