The Maine Poster and Essay Contests are designed to promote the history of Maine, the Maine Constitution and the importance of democracy and voting. This program is open to Maine students at all grade levels. We received a total of 208 entries for the 2025 program from students all over the state of Maine.
Students at the kindergarten through 5th grade level create a poster:
Students in grades K - 3 draw posters of official Maine symbols;
Students in grades 4 & 5 draw posters with a Maine history theme of their choice.
Students at the middle/high school levels write an essay:
Students in grades 6-8 write an essay on the Maine Constitution;
2026 Prompt: As we prepare for America’s 250th birthday on July 4, 2026, citizens across the nation are reflecting on what being an American means, and how our history has shaped our culture today. Each individual state within the United States has it’s own unique culture and identity that contributes to the fabric of broader American culture. Thinking about the culture and identity of Maine, reflect on what being a Mainer means to you and choose a section of Article 1, the Declaration of Rights, of the Maine State constitution that you believe exemplifies these values.
Students in grades 9-12 write an essay on the importance of voting and democracy.
2026 Prompt: Voting is a constitutional right for eligible Americans once they turn 18, and in Maine you never lose your right to vote. Sometimes, voting is called a “civic responsibility” by those who believe that people who possess the right to vote should do so in every election they are eligible to vote in. Do you believe that voting is a civic responsibility? Why or why not?