The Maine Constitution Essay and Poster Program is 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 162 entries for the 2024 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.
Students at the junior high (middle school) and high school levels write an essay:
- Students in grades 6-8 write an essay on the Maine Constitution;
- Students in grades 9-12 write an essay on the importance of voting and democracy.
Due to the temporary relocation of the Maine State Archives, we are unable to offer in-person visits to the Archives as a prize for top entries. Each student who submits an entry will receive a participation certificate. Top entries will receive an award certificate and the opportunity to visit the Office of the Secretary of State and the State House.
Program Rules
- All posters may not exceed 15" x 24" in size.
- All essays should be between 500-1000 words.
- Each poster or essay must be clearly marked with the student's name, grade, and the name of the school on the back.
- All essays and posters will be judged on the following criteria:
- Originality
- Dedication to contest theme
- Knowledge of topic
- Return of essays and posters cannot be guaranteed.
- Entries should be submitted with the registration form (PDF). A separate registration form should be used for each grade level/category. Entries are due March 7, 2025.
Contact
Office of the Secretary of State
148 State House Station
Augusta, ME 04333-0148
Telephone: 207-626-8400
FAX: 207-287-8598
Send email to: sos.office@maine.gov
Please do not email scanned posters.