Slogan & Essay Contests

For the past 18 years, the Office of the Secretary of State has held a statewide slogan and essay contest for Kentucky high school students, in accordance with KRS 117.900.  These contests are part of the Secretary's efforts to increase the civic awareness of Kentucky's youth.  Though the contest has always highlighted issues relating to voting and elections, this year the essay contest will also address the First Amendment right to freedom of the press.

We are proud to partner, once again, with the Kentucky Education Association and the Scripps Howard First Amendment Center, a division of the University of Kentucky School of Journalism and Telecommunications.  Without their financial support and involvement, this contest would not be possible.

This year the Slogan Contest has been modified to allow entries from students only in the 7th & 8th grades. Awards will be given to the overall first, second, and third place winners.

First place will receive $500 cash or a $1,000 savings bond.
Second place will receive $300 cash or a $600 savings bond.
Third place will receive $200 cash or a $400 savings bond.

All entries must be submitted electronically by 5 p.m. (EST) Friday, November 16, 2007 or postmarked by that day to be eligible for consideration.

Winners will be notified no later than March 2008.

Click here for more information and to enter the Slogan Contest.

The Essay Contest awards a first place prize in 9th grade, 10th grade, 11th grade, and 12th grade.  Each winner will receive $750 cash or a $1500 savings bond.

All entries must be submitted electronically by 5 p.m. (EST) Friday, November 16, 2007 or postmarked by that day to be eligible for consideration.

Winners will be notified no later than March 2008.

Click here for more information and to enter the Essay Contest.