New Mexico Association of Non-public Schools 2025 Essay Contest Guidelines

NMANS thinks student reflection is an important part of a good education. Having students reflect on their own education is important.  If reflection is the wellspring of inspiration, imagine the power of having your students think about their education, their formation and their future. Thank you for considering our 2025 School Reflection Essay Contest/ 

Middle School and High School students are asked to respond individually  to one of these three writing prompts:

How has your school's culture and community contributed to your success in school?

How has your school’s culture or community influenced your sense of belonging and identity?

How has your school’s philosophy or values impacted your own understanding of what’s important in life?

Guidelines

1. Student’s school must be a member of NMANS. 
2. Parents, students and their schools must agree that the winners’  essays for  middle and high school will be published on the NMANS website.
3. Each school may submit up to three essays per middle school (grades 6-8) and high school (grades 9-12)
4. Essay must be typed with student name, grade and school name on a cover sheet separate from the actual essay for judging purposes.
5. Essay must be no more than 300 words using 12pt Arial font.
6. Top three high school and three middle school winners will be recognized with the following awards:
   
   1. First place, published on website and $75.00 gift card; 
   2. Second place, published on website and $50.00 gift card
   3. Third place, published on website and $25.00 gift card
7. Essays should be submitted to nmansinfo@gmail.com by December 1. Winners will be announced no later than December 16. 
8. Questions? Email nmansinfo@gmail.org

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