MML's oldest ambassador program, the annual If I Were Mayor, I Would...essay contest is celebrating its 25th anniversary. The 25-year-old contest educates fourth graders (and teachers) about municipal government and the role of the mayor.
Francis Scott Key Elementary/Middle School #76 fourth grade teacher, Ms. Gauthier, shares tips on how she encourages students to enter the contest. Ms. Gauthier not only had a winning student in MML's 2024 essay contest, it was also her first time entering the contest.
Essay Contest Tips:
- Post the contest information everywhere such as your bulletin board and online classroom.
- Share contest information with students' families in the weekly newsletter.
- During social studies, talk about what the prompt means and the importance of sharing our voice for change.
- Offer office hours for students who need support organizing their ideas
When asked how she felt about having her student become one of eleven essay contest winners in the state, she shared that it was a surreal moment. She was immensely proud to see her student be recognized for his idea to improve the Baltimore community. Watching him meet Governor Moore and be honored for his essay was one of the highlights of my school year.
Essay Contest Key Dates to Remember
- March 7 – all digital essay submissions due
- March 13 – annual essay reading day
- April 25 – Essay Ceremony honoring district winners
Materials are now available on our website. If you have any questions, please contact Sharon Easton at [email protected].