Arkansas Peace Week Essay contest is open to Arkansas students, 7th – 12th grade. Last year we had over 300 submission from all over the state. Schools, teachers, faith groups and other youth organizations are encouraged to sponsor and guide students with their submissions.
Essay should address the following theme:
- In 2022 the FBI reported that Arkansas has the nation’s 4th highest rate of violent crime. How has violence impacted you and your communities? What can be done to reduce violence in Arkansas?
Submissions will be judged on the basis of following criteria: -Understanding of the theme, original thinking relative to the topic, effectiveness in presenting a point, of-view, and literary style, grammar and spelling
Awards will be presented in the following categories:
- – 7th grade
- – 8th grade
- – 9th grade
- – 10th grade
- – 11th grade
- – 12th grade
1st Place winners in each category will receive $100
2nd Place winners in each category will receive $50
3rd Place winners in each category will receive $25
Finalist will be announced by September 17, 2023. Award winners will be announced, and are invited to read their essays at the Arkansas State Capitol on September 23, 2023.
Entries must be submitted by September 6, 2023. For complete rules and to register for the contest, please see our Online Registration Form.
Read the Essays from the 2021 Winners and Finalist
Email arpeaceweek@gmail.com or call Bob Estes at 501-804-6052 with questions.
Arkansas Peace Week 
