2026 Bill of Rights Essay Contest
October 12 – November 23
On December 15, 1791, the United States ratified the Bill of Rights, the first ten amendments to the U.S. Constitution. As our nation celebrates the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence this year, the Bill of Rights remains both a symbol and a safeguard of the freedoms at the heart of the American experiment.
Join the Herzog Foundation in commemorating Americaā€™s semiquincentennial and 235 years of the Bill of Rights by answering the following essay prompt:
What made the Bill of Rights revolutionary and unique at the time of its ratification? As the United States celebrates its 250th anniversary, why do these rights remain essential, and how can todayā€™s citizens preserve them for future generations?
Contestants must answer the prompt in 1,500 words or fewer (approximately three single-spaced pages). Bibliographies will not count toward the word limit. Only essays from full-time students in Christian schools or homeschools will be considered.
One middle school winner (grades 6-8) and one high school winner will each receive a $300 award from the Herzog Foundation. Depending on the strength of the submissions, a number of runners-up may also receive a $150 award.
Winners will be announced on December 15, 2026, in honor of Bill of Rights Day.
Please submit your essay no later than November 23, 2026.