ESS ART CONTEST

We are excited to announce that the ESS Art Contest 2026 has launched! The contest is open to public school students in grades K-12 throughout the continental United States.

Quick Facts About the Contest

• The contest information is located at ArtContest.ESS.com.
• To enter, students must submit a traditional or digital drawing or painting with an image representing “Imagine a day at school where toys come to life. What would your day look like?”
• The contest ends on March 1 at 8:00 pm Eastern Time.
• The top five finalists in each Grade Group will be featured on ESS’ Facebook and Instagram for public voting during the week of April 6.
• Public voting ends on April 12 at 8:00 pm Eastern Time.
• Winners will be announced on April 15.
• Winning students will receive a $500 American Express gift card, plus $500 for their school.
• Any questions, email ArtContest@ESS.com.

National Civics Bee for Middle School Students in NC

Please help spread the word to middle school students in your school about the National Civics Bee in North Carolina! 

NC State is proud to host the Civics Bee in North Carolina. For more information read this announcement from the NCSU Humanities and Social Sciences News. 

All Middle School students in NC are eligible for the Civics Bee Essay Contest. Participating students may progress from the essay contest to regional, state and national contests. The winner of the National Bee is awarded $100,000 for their 529 Education Fund. Learn more here.

How to Apply: This Essay Application Guide is a step-by-step guide to support the essay writing process. The Essay Portal is open until February 4th.

Please help us share this announcement with schools, teachers, and students. Resources for educators and students: Educator Toolkit | Student Flyer

More information about the Civics Bee: How it works