The Arkansas School Boards Association (ASBA) invites YOU to step up, speak out, and shine!
Arkansas 11th and 12th graders are invited to participate in the 2026 ASBA Student Speaking Contest. Winners will present their ideas live at the 2026 ASBA Annual Conference, before school board members and administrators from across the state, held December 9–11, 2026, at the Little Rock Marriott – Statehouse Convention Center.
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 receive recognition on the ASBA website and have their work featured in the ASBA quarterly publication, Report Card.
This year’s theme is ONE YEAR FROM GRADUATION….
Picture yourself one year after high school.
Where are you? Maybe you're sitting in a college classroom, learning a trade, serving your country, working your first full-time job, building something of your own—or still figuring out exactly where you belong.
Now think beyond where you are.
For years, school has provided a familiar rhythm—classes, schedules, teachers, activities, expectations, friendships, and people to turn to. After graduation, some of that will change. You may find yourself making more decisions on your own, taking on new responsibilities, meeting people with experiences different from yours, facing unexpected challenges, or discovering that the future you imagined looks different once you get there.
That first year won't just be about what you know. It will also be about who you are becoming.
Think about the experiences that have shaped you, the people and lessons you will carry with you, and the things you may still have to learn along the way.
THE PROMPT
Imagine yourself one year after high school. As you step into greater independence, new responsibilities, and an uncertain future, who will you need to be—and what do you believe will matter most? Why?
Use your own experiences, perspective, and hopes for the future to bring your response to life. We want to hear your voice—not the answer you think adults expect to hear.
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 23, 2026
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)
Judges will evaluate essays and presentations on content quality, delivery, and originality.
You can access the full contest rules, along with a link to the online application, at https://aptg.co/rz4Ml7. 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.