MLK Jr. Essay Contest
Martin Luther King, Jr. Essay Contest
Each year on the third Monday of January, we celebrate the life and the dream of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. It is a time for our nation to remember the injustices that Dr. King fought. He fought for the freedom, dignity, and equality of all races and people.
Resources
OVERVIEW
Students in Middle School and High School are asked to write an essay based on a quote from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Up to 5 essays may be submitted by a single school.
This contest is free for Department of Student Programs member schools.
Non-member schools will be charged $10 per essay that is submitted.
ENTRY SUBMISSION INSTRUCTIONS
The entry deadline is February 28, 2023.
2022 CONTEST WINNERS:
JUNIOR HIGH
1st Place: Mya Reed, Clifford Pierce Middle School, Merrillville
2nd Place: Barrie Terman, Clay Middle School, Carmel
3rd Place: Aparna Prasad, Creekside Middle School, Carmel
2022 CONTEST WINNERS:
HIGH SCHOOL
1st Place: Kylee Nichols, Carmel High School
2nd Place: Anderson Robb, Benton Central Jr/Sr High School, Oxford
3rd Place: Victor Cuevas, Ben Davis High School, Indianapolis
Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions about our student programs and competitions? Check out our FAQ section for the most commonly asked questions.
Essay Contest News
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2023 Martin Luther King Jr. Essay Contest Winners
Student essays were submitted as a part of the 2023 Martin Luther King Jr. Essay Contest! Click to see who won top honors in each division in 2023!
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2021 Martin Luther King Jr. Essay Contest Winners
Student essays were submitted as a part of the 2021 Martin Luther King Jr. Essay Contest! Click to see who won top honors in each division in 2021!
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Academic Coach of the Year Nominations
Academic Coach of the Year Nominations opening later this school year!
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Giant Academics!
Guest blog post by Keith Burke Marion High School has a very proud athletic tradition. The Giants have won eight state championships and are tied with Muncie Central for the most titles in Indiana high school boys basketball history. Nearly everyone knows of the Giant athletic tradition at Marion High School but, there is another […]
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Check out the IASP Department of Student Programs’ Newsletter, After the Bell
Be sure to check out the IASP Department of Student Programs' newsletter, After the Bell!
Academic Coach
of the Year
Anyone who serves as an academic coach during the school year is eligible for this award, and can be nominated by their principal, another coach, coordinator or volunteer. One academic coach from each level of competition (elementary, middle/junior and senior) is recognized at our annual Academic Coaches Conference.
Join DSP
In order to participate in Department of Student Programs (DSP) sponsored academic competitions, cheer competitions, Student Day at the Legislature, MLK Essay contest, and any other DSP programs, schools must maintain a current membership in DSP.
