November 1, 2022
National Council for the Social Studies has announced The 1787 Prize, an annual essay contest for high school students in grades 11 and 12. The freedoms we hold dear are embodied in rules and laws we democratically have a voice in crafting. The 1787 Prize brings those citizen voices back to center stage. It recognizes the best student essay on the subject of the US Constitution’s past, present, and future relevance by exploring how our written principles align with this vision of citizen engagement.
Up to three student co-authors may submit an essay of between 1,000 and 2,500 words—only one essay will be accepted per school. Two awards will be announced in the amount of $2,500 each. The $2,500 prize amount will be split among any co-authors.
Deadlines: Essays are due by March 31, 2023, at 11:59 p.m. Hawaii Standard Time. From April through May, The 1787 Prize Selection Committee will review all essays. The 1787 Prize winner will be announced on June 1, 2023.