Sen. Frank Farry announced on Mar. 19 a student essay contest for high school students in the 6th Senatorial District as part of Pennsylvania’s statewide initiative to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States.
The contest is linked to the America250PA celebration, which will culminate with a ceremonial session of the Pennsylvania Senate on May 5 at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia. Each Senate district will select one student to represent their community at this event, which aims to highlight Pennsylvania’s role in the nation’s founding and encourage civic engagement among youth.
“This milestone anniversary provides an important opportunity for students to reflect on our nation’s founding principles and their relevance today,” Farry said. “I encourage students across our district to participate, share their perspectives and engage in this meaningful civic experience.”
Eligible participants are students in grades 9 through 12 who live in the 6th Senatorial District. They are invited to submit a 250- to 500-word essay responding to the prompt: “Which Founding Father or historical figure from the Founding Era do you find most relatable to you or find most inspiring and why?” Essays will be judged anonymously by a panel that includes educators, historians, and civic leaders. The evaluation criteria include understanding of the historical figure, personal connection, historical insight, use of evidence, organization, and writing quality.
The selected student will attend the May ceremony accompanied by a parent or guardian. Essay submissions are due by Sunday, March 29 at 11:59 p.m., with winners notified in early April. Educators and school administrators are encouraged to promote participation among eligible students.
Farry has engaged in public service through roles in Middletown Township and local fire company leadership, according to his official website. He has also championed laws addressing public safety issues such as penalties for porch piracy and illegal street racing according to his official website. Farry lives with his wife Kristen and their two children according to his official website. He was elected to represent Bucks County’s 6th District in the Pennsylvania Senate in 2022 according to his official website. Farry holds a bachelor’s degree from the Wharton School of Business and advanced degrees from Rutgers University according to his official website, and he grew up locally, graduating from Neshaminy High School according to his official website.
The essay contest is expected not only to honor history but also foster greater civic awareness among young people as they reflect on foundational American values.
