Essay Prompt

Cesar Chavez believed strongly in education, encouraged by others to train and teach fellow organizers despite his own limited formal education. He said, "The end of all education should surely be service to others."

Research how Chavez educated farm workers about their rights and trained future leaders.
Reflect on your own education: How can you use what you're learning to serve others and
create positive change in your community?
Contest is open to Fresno County students in grades 7-12
Judging Divisions: 7-8 and 9-12

Essay Contest Rules

• Essays must be the original work of the student. It must not have been published previously in any form, including online. Any indication of plagiarism will be grounds for disqualification.
• Essays must clearly address the contest theme and prompt.
• Word count parameters:
  • 7-8th Grades -- up to 1,000 words
  • 9-12th Grades -- up to 1,500 words
• Essays should be typed in English with size 12 font and 1” margins and include a works cited page
• Include a cover sheet with student name, grade, and school. This information will be removed prior to judging to ensure anonymity.
• Teachers must submit essays by Friday, February 14, 2025 at 11:59PM via Google Form. Each school is allowed to submit up to 5 essays.
• Top essay winners in each division will be recognized at the March 2025 Fresno County Board of Education Meeting.