With the passing of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 2026, we want to continue the reflection on America’s history, values, identity, and future with this essay contest. Winners will be honored by the Secretary of State, Chair of the Arizona 250 Commission.
SUBMISSIONS DUE SEPTEMBER 25, 2026
REQUIRED: The Adult Approval Form
Essays and required information must be uploaded digitally.
Student submissions should include only the student’s name and city. No other identifying information (such as school, birthdate, or address. The submission form will request adult information for contact purposes.
An adult must submit the student essay(s) - this can be a teacher submitting multiple student essays (one per class or class period/Block) or a caregiver submitting for a student.
If multiple essays are being submitted, they should be submitted as one combined PDF. Each essay should only have the student first name and city (no other identifying information should be included)
Adults must also submit a signed copy of the Adult Approval Form.
Students will answer ONE of the following questions:
Essays must meet the following minimum word count:
Essays will be reviewed using the Ink for Independence Review Rubric.
A panel of educators and state leaders will review all essays received and will select ten students to receive a Letter of Recognition from the Arizona Secretary of State and the Arizona 250 Commission.
The Arizona Secretary of State will select three standout essays, one from each grade division: elementary, middle, and high school. Each selected essay will be printed and displayed at the Arizona State Capitol and other official platforms.
The ceremony will take place on December 1 at the Executive Tower in downtown Phoenix.
High school students who participate in the Arizona Ink for Independence Essay Contest may be eligible to apply their participation toward requirements for the Arizona Seal of Civics Literacy, as determined by their school district or charter school.
The Arizona Seal of Civics Literacy recognizes high school students who demonstrate a strong understanding of civics and active engagement in their community. Students who earn the seal receive a special designation on their diploma and transcript, highlighting their commitment to civic knowledge, participation, and the responsibilities of citizenship.
Because this essay contest asks students to reflect on America’s history, values, and civic identity during the nation’s 250th anniversary, it may support civics learning, engagement, or written reflection requirements connected to the Seal of Civics Literacy. Students should contact their school or district coordinator to confirm how participation may count toward earning the seal.
Seal of Civics Literacy Homepage
This essay contest aligns to the following social studies and ELA standards:
W.2 Write informative/explanatory texts to examine and convey complex ideas and information clearly and accurately through the effective selection, organization, and analysis of content.
W.4 Produce clear and coherent writing in which the development, organization, and style are appropriate to task, purpose, and audience.
L.1 Demonstrate command of the conventions of Standard English grammar and usage when writing or speaking.
L.2 Demonstrate command of the conventions of Standard English capitalization, punctuation, and spelling when writing.
C1 Civic virtues and democratic principles are key components of the American political system.
H1 The development of civilizations, societies, cultures, and innovations have influenced history and continue to impact the modern world.
ARIZONA INK FOR INDEPENDENCE GRADING CRITERIA
Prior to submission, if submitting multiple essays, make sure they are submitted all together as one PDF. Remove and identifying information from the student documents.