Constitution Essay Contest

The United States Constitution was signed on September 17, 1787 by 39 delegates to the Constitutional Convention – the Founding Fathers. The delegates represented 12 of the original 13 colonies, with Rhode Island not participating.

At approximately 4,400 words long, the United States Constitution is the oldest and shortest constitution of any major world government. It establishes a Constitutional Republic, which is much different than a Democracy. You will not find the word “Democracy” anywhere in the United States Constitution nor the Constitutions of any of the States.​
 In partnership with the Foundation for Lee County Public Schools, a Constitution Essay Contest for 7th Grade students is offered as part of the Social Studies and Language Arts curricula of Lee County, FL. The program kicks off yearly on Constitution Day, September 17th.​.
Here's how it works:
  • All 7th grade civics classes will receive Constitution reference materials
  • All students are invited to submit an essay
  • Each school submits the best essay for scoring
  • All school finalist receive a Certificate of Excellence
  • The winners are recognized at a televised School Board Meeting
  • The 1st place winner is awarded a tablet computer; 2nd and 3rd place winners are awarded e-readers
  • The winners earns school supply gift cards for their Language Arts and Social Studies teachers
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Thank You for Your Support!
We are grateful to the following donors for their support of the 2017-2018 Constitution Essay Contest:

Father Christopher Gaynor: Assembly 2115, Knights of Columbus
Cecil Pendergrass: Lee County Commissioner
Dave Stokes: District 5 Councilmember, City of Cape Coral