Washington Generals kicks off annual essay contest

An essay contest to promote academic excellence and strong literacy skills is now open to Washington students enrolled in grades seven through 12.

The contest, sponsored by the Association of Washington Generals (AWG), offers a $500 award to students who place first in the grade categories of 7-8 or 9-12, with runners up receiving $100.  The overall state winner will receive an additional $500 with the runner-up receiving $250.

The 12^th grade winner will receive a $1,500 higher education scholarship. The teacher who submits the most student essays will receive a cash award of $250.  

Winners will also receive a plaque at an awards ceremony at their school.

This year’s contest asks students to write a detailed essay describing what they believe are the three most important dates in Washington state history.  There is no length requirement, but participants are asked to be descriptive in conveying their individual thoughts and ideas and focus on the issues that are the most important to them.

Essays are due Dec. 1, 2008.  More information and an application packet can be found on the Washington Generals Web site at www.washingtongenerals.org or by contacting Victoria Laise Jonas, AWG Student Essay Contest chairperson, at ssjonas@comcast.net

The Association of Washington Generals is a state service organization whose primary function is to recognize worthy citizens who contribute their time and their effort to the community.  In sponsoring the contest, the AWG partners with schools to support the teaching of basic skills of reading and writing.

The AWG operates in partnership with the Office of Lt. Governor Brad Owen

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