HOW 3-12 STUDENTS CAN SUBMIT ESSAY OR ARTWORK BY 5 P.M., TODAY, FIND THE RIGHT FIT COLLEGE SEARCH FOR PARENTS (976 hits)
For Immediate Release From USDE!
The Contest
What does America mean to you?
In 2026, the United States will mark our Semiquincentennial: the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Today’s young people are the leaders, innovators, and thinkers who will shape the next 250 years — and it’s important their voices are heard as we commemorate this historic milestone.
America’s Field Trip is a contest that invites students across the country in grades 3–12 to be part of America’s 250th anniversary by sharing their perspectives on what America means to them — with the opportunity to earn an unforgettable field trip experience at some of the nation’s most iconic historic and cultural landmarks.
Download a flyer with full details on America’s Field Trip and help spread the word about this incredible opportunity for students nationwide.
Students are asked to submit writing or original artwork in response to the contest’s prompt: “What does America mean to you?”
Submissions will be accepted until Wednesday, April 16, 2025 at 5:00 p.m. ET.
View U.S. Department of Education data about costs, student debt, graduation rates, admissions test scores and acceptance rates, student body diversity, post-college earnings, and more.
