2026 Student Essay & Speaking Contest
The Mississippi School Boards Association (MSBA) annual Student Essay & Speaking Contest is open to 11th and 12th grade students in Mississippi public schools. This contest offers students the opportunity to showcase their creativity, research abilities, and public speaking skills while addressing this year’s topic:
What are the benefits of a public school education?
One winner will be selected from each of Mississippi’s four Congressional Districts. Each winner will receive a $1,000 award and will be invited to deliver their speech in-person at the MSBA Annual Conference, February 24-25, 2026, at the Sheraton in Flowood, MS. Winners will also be spotlighted in MSBA’s quarterly publication, Update.
Contest Deadline:
Entries must be submitted by Friday, December 12, 2025, at 4:00 p.m. Late submissions will not be accepted.
How to Enter:
Complete the application and submit your essay along with a link to your video recording of the speech.
To enter the 2026 Student Essay & Speaking Contest
and for complete details,
download the application packet, click here.
Spread the Word Across Your Schools!
Board members, teachers, and school districts—download the flyer and share it with students who might be interested!
2025 Contest Winners
Left-Right: Congressional 1 Winner Alexis Pittman, New Albany High School;
Congressional 2 Winner Jermaine Blacknall, Rosa Fort High School;
Congressional 3 Winner Jaden Mosley, Meridian High School;
Congressional 4 Winner Ava Patrick, Gulfport High School