Students across Kosciusko and Attala County have a chance to showcase their creativity and historical knowledge as part of upcoming celebrations for America’s 250th anniversary.
The Kosciusko Foundation for Excellence in Education (KFEE) has announced two competitions—a writing contest and an art contest—open to students ages 7 to 18 who live in Attala County. Cash prizes will be awarded in each age group.
The contests are part of local efforts to honor Tadeusz Kościuszko, the town’s namesake, who played a key role in the American Revolutionary War and is often referred to as the “Hero of Two Worlds.”
Writing Contest Details
The writing contest is divided into three age groups, each with a unique theme connected to Kościuszko’s life and legacy.
- Junior Patriots (Ages 7–10): Students are asked to write a 250–300 word letter from the perspective of a soldier working alongside Kościuszko.
- The Engineers (Ages 11–14): Students will explain how Kościuszko’s engineering skills helped win the Revolutionary War and why he fought for fairness and equality. Essays should be 400–500 words.
- The Visionaries (Ages 15–18): Students will analyze Kościuszko’s final will and discuss how his ideas from the 18th century can still help improve America today. Essays should be 500–750 words.
Prizes in each writing category include $150 for first place, $100 for second place, and $50 for third place.
Art Contest Details
Students can also participate in an art contest, which features projects tailored to each age group.
- Ages 7–10: Design a special flag celebrating America’s 250th anniversary.
- Ages 11–14: Create an antique-style map of a Revolutionary War battle site, such as West Point or Saratoga.
- Ages 15–18: Develop a symbolic artwork featuring images like gears, tools, and broken chains to represent engineering and equality.
Art contest prizes match the writing contest, with $150 awarded for first place, $100 for second place, and $50 for third place in each age group.
How to Enter
All contest entries must be submitted by June 1, 2026.
Writing submissions should be double-spaced and emailed to [email protected]. Entries must include a title page listing the student’s name, age, and guardian contact information.
Artwork should be delivered to the KAP Office, with the artist’s name, age, and guardian contact information included with the submission.
Questions about either contest can be sent to [email protected].
Local leaders say the contests are designed to encourage students to learn more about the history behind Kosciusko’s unique name while taking part in nationwide celebrations marking the 250th anniversary of the United States.
