The National Rural Education Association (NREA) has kicked off its annual NREA Foundation Essay Contest. Any student who attends a rural school is eligible to participate. Contest entries are due May 1 (extended from April 1).

The contest features three divisions: elementary, middle/junior high, and high school. Grades 3-8 may participate in a written essay contest using the provided prompt and rubric. Grades 9-12 may participate in a video essay contest using the provided prompt and rubric.

The prompt encourages students to think about rural schools as the center of the community and how the school relates to the community.

The winner in the elementary division receives $250; the runner-up will receive $100. The winners in the middle/junior high and high school divisions receive $400; the runner-ups receive a $200 prize.

View contest guidelines.

Learn more.