Laura Young
ECB Publishing, Inc.
The Monticello News is pleased to participate in Jefferson County's celebration of America's 250th Independence Day by sponsoring writing and art contests for residents in preschool through twelfth grade. Top winners in each category will receive trophies/ribbons and have their entry published in the newspaper. Entries must be submitted to the Monticello News office by noon on Friday, May 1. For additional details about contest requirements and rules, read on!
Writing Contests
Maximum length is 350 words.
Elementary
Write a short story using at least five words from the following word bank: watermelon, fireworks, flag, parade, thunderstorm, splash, race, tunnel, cousins, bicycle, friend, dog, stars, stripes, sparklers, eagle, barbecue.
Middle School
Write a letter to an imaginary friend who lives in another country. Explain why Americans celebrate Independence Day, and describe five things you like about living in America.
High School
What does freedom mean to you? Discuss five ways you can joyfully and responsibly exercise your freedom.
Art Contests
Finished art should be no smaller than letter size (8.5" x 11") and no larger than regular poster size (24" x 36").
Elementary
Draw, label and color a design for decorating a bicycle, tricycle or pedal car for the Fourth of July.
Middle School
Create a mosaic of the American flag using pieces of pictures from magazines.
High School
Create a painting or drawing that depicts a Fourth of July celebration scene.
Rules:
- Entries must be completely the original work of the individual contestant. No AI generation or assistance allowed.
- Adults may assist contestants only by clarifying the contest prompt and providing materials, tools, space and time to work.
- Each entry should have a title.
- Entries must be delivered to the Monticello News office, located at 180 W. Washington St., by noon on Friday, May 1, to be eligible for winning.
- Entries must be accompanied by a completed entry form (below) with information about the contestant and a statement of authenticity signed by the contestant.
Monticello News Independence Day Writing and Art Contests ENTRY FORM