2026 MLK Essay Contest - Call for Submissions

In honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and his enduring belief that education must develop both intelligence and character, Atkinson, Andelson, Loya, Ruud & Romo invites middle and high school students to participate in the 2026 MLK Essay Contest. This year’s contest encourages students to reflect on the true purpose of education and its role in shaping thoughtful, responsible, and engaged members of society. Through thoughtful writing and personal reflection, students are invited to explore how Dr. King’s message continues to guide learning, leadership, and character today.

SUBMIT YOUR ESSAY BY JANUARY 26, 2026

Essays must be submitted by January 26, 2026. Submissions received after the deadline will not be accepted.

MLK Essay Contest Submissions Now Closed - Thank You!

WHO CAN PARTICIPATE?

The 2026 MLK Essay Contest is open to middle school (Grades 6–8) and high school (Grades 9–12) students. Separate divisions ensure age-appropriate prompts and judging. See writing prompts below.

PRIZES

Prizes will be awarded in each division:

• 1st Place: $300

• 2nd Place: $200

• 3rd Place: $100

Winning essays may be recognized and/or published by Atkinson, Andelson, Loya, Ruud & Romo.

MIDDLE SCHOOL WRITING PROMPT

(Grades 6-8) 250-500 words

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. believed that real education is not only about learning facts, but also about becoming a good and thoughtful person. In his words, "Intelligence plus character-that is the goal of true education." 

In your essay, explain what you think Dr. King meant by this quote. Consider:

• In what ways do you seek to expand your intelligence? 
• What does character mean to you, and why is it important? 
• Describe a time you used both intelligence and character to make a positive choice or help someone. 
• How can students today honor Dr. King's vision through their actions at school, at home, or in their community? 
• Use examples from your own life, history, or current events to support your ideas. 

HIGH SCHOOL WRITING PROMPT

(Grades 9-12) 500-700 words

In his 1947 essay "The Purpose of Education," Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. argued that education must develop both "intelligence and character" for individuals to contribute meaningfully to society. 

In your essay, analyze what Dr. King meant by this statement and discuss its relevance today. You may explore: 

• How schools balance academic learning with the development of values, ethics, and responsibility.
• Why Dr. King believed that intelligence without character could be dangerous. 
• Ways your educational experiences have shaped both your mind and your character.
• How Dr. King's message applies to current issues facing students, schools, and society.
• Use thoughtful reasoning, clear examples, and, when appropriate, connections to Dr. King's legacy of leadership, justice, and service. 

RULES

Requirements: Original student work only; typed, double-spaced; include student name, grade, and school.

Submission: Submit essays as a PDF by the January 26th, 2026 deadline (no late entries).

Judging & Awards: Essays are judged on understanding of the prompt, originality, clarity, and writing quality; winning essays may be published. Plagiarism or AI-generated content will result in disqualification; judges’ decisions are final.