The Arkansas School Boards Association (ASBA) is excited to invite YOU to step up, speak out, and shine!
Arkansas 11th and 12th graders are invited to participate in the 2025 ASBA Student Essay & Speaking Contest. Winners will present their ideas live at the 2025 ASBA Annual Conference, before school board members and administrators from across the state, held December 10–12, 2025, at the Little Rock Marriott – Statehouse Convention Center.
This is your chance to show what’s at the heart of school — and to let your voice be heard on a statewide stage.
TOPIC: “The Heart of School"
It’s not a subject. It’s not a test. It’s something deeper.
What is the most important thing schools should give students — beyond academics — to prepare them for life? Explain why it matters and how it could shape students, schools, and communities for decades.
Participants have the chance to win cash prizes—$1,000 for 1st place, $750 for 2nd place, $500 for 3rd place, and $250 for honorable mention! Winners will also present their essays at the conference, receive recognition on the ASBA website, and have their work featured in the ASBA quarterly publication, Report Card.
Contest Details:
Open to juniors and seniors from ASBA member schools (1 submission per member district - Each district may choose its applicant using the method it deems most appropriate.)
Applications due by 4 p.m. on October 24, 2025
Required Submissions:
Online application, which includes -
600-750 word essay
Video of the essay presented as a speech
Signed Parental Release Form (located in the contest rules and guidelines document)
Essays and presentations will be judged on content quality, delivery, and originality.
Full contest rules, along with a link to the online application, can be accessed at https://5il.co/3otb2. Be sure to read and follow all of the guidelines as non-adherence will disqualify your entry from consideration.
Best of luck to all of our student speakers! We look forward to hearing your ideas on reshaping the future of education.