America 250 Contest
We the People: Voices of America
America’s story is not told through one voice.
It is told through millions of voices, experiences, traditions, and perspectives that together create the American story. As we celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, students are invited to explore the meaning of “We the People” by interviewing someone whose life experiences, career, generation, culture, or background may be different from their own. Through listening and learning, students will discover how diverse voices contribute to the American Spirit.
Contest Details
Create a 60-second video interview featuring a fellow American. Ask the question: “What does it mean to be part of ‘We the People’?”
Interview someone whose experiences differ from your own. This could include: veterans, teachers, farmers, first responders, nurses, grandparents, immigrants, community volunteers, small business owners, coaches, civil leaders, and more. Your interview should highlight how their experiences contribute to the story of America.
Reflection Component
In addition to the video submission, students must submit a brief written reflection (150-250 words) answering the question: What did you learn from this interview, and how did it shape or broaden your understanding of the American experience?
Students could explain: why they selected their interview subject, what surprised them, what they learned, how the interview changed or reinforced their understanding of America and “We the People”
Please read complete contest details below before submitting your entry.
Categories & Eligibility
STUDENTS: 60-Second Video Interview
- U.S. Students enrolled in Grades 6-8 and between the ages of 11-13 as of September 1, 2026.
- U.S. Students enrolled in Grades 9-12 and between the ages of 14-18 as of September 1, 2026.
TEACHERS: Most Contest Entries From Their Class
- U.S. teachers of Grades 6-8 as of September 1, 2026.
- U.S. teachers of Grades 9-12 as of September 1, 2026.
Please note: Winners in the 30 Seconds. One Nation. Your Voice. contest are not eligible to enter the We the People contest.
Timeline
Launch Date: September 1, 2026
Submission Deadline: December 1, 2026 by 11:59pm CST
Winners Announced: December 15, 2026
Rules & Guidelines
- Exactly or up to 60 seconds
- Format: MP4 or MOV, with a shareable link from YouTube, Vimeo, Google Drive, or Dropbox. We must be able to download and share the file.
- Must be original and created by the student(s). No AI content allowed. No copyrighted music, film clips, or photos are allowed.
- No profanity, hate speech or violent content. Must be “Rated G.”
- An entry may be submitted in only one category. Up to three additional students may appear in the video, but all participating students must fall within the category’s grade range.
- Anyone shown in the video must have given permission to be filmed and included on the entry form.
- All entrants and submissions give The Eisenhower Foundation, IKEducation, Kansas 250, and/or America 250 the right to be used for promotional purposes.
- Submission for minors must be made on the students’ behalf by a parent/legal guardian, or by a teacher with parental permissions.
- No submission without proper permissions will be considered.
Prizes & Recognition
Grades 6-8 Students:
- 1st Place: $250
- 2nd Place: $125
- Honorable Mentions
Grades 9-12 Students:
- 1st Place: $500
- 2nd Place: $250
- Honorable Mentions
Grades 6-8 Teacher: Most entries from their class- $500
Grades 9-12 Teacher: Most entries from their class- $500
Plus: All winners and their entries will be featured on our website and social media channels!
Apply
Ready to apply? Simply select the form that is relevant to you and sign our photo release and children’s privacy forms.