Enrichment Opportunities

Reading

Mensa for Kids Excellence in Reading Program - This program provides students with reading suggestions based on grade level. If students read all of the books, write the date completed on the form as well as give it a rating from 1 to 5 stars they are eligible for a free t-shirt and certificate of achievement

Writing

Cassini Scientist for a Day Essay Contest - Students grades 5-12 write an essay of up to 500 words with winning schools invited to participate in a teleconference with Cassini scientists.

Creative Communication - Students in grades 3-12 can write an essay or poetry on a topic they feel is important to compete for prizes such as a $25 check.

ARS Children's Essay Contest - Sponsored by the American Rose Society, kids 12 and younger can submit an essay of 400 words or less about roses to compete for prizes such as gift certificates and society membership.

The Betty Award - This worldwide contest is open to children ages 8-12. Submit one original unpublished story with a maximum length of 1,000 words. Students can compete for cash prices ranging from $100 to $300.

Kids Are Authors - This annual competition open to grades K-8 is open to grades K-8 and is designed to encourage students to use their reading, writing, and artistic skills to create their own books. The grand prize winning team receives $5,000 in merchandise from Scholastic and 100 copies of their published book, with 25 honorable mention winners also receiving prizes.

PBS Kids Writers Contest - Contest is open to kids in K-3rd grade who want to write and illustrate their own stories. Contact your local PBS station to find out if they are running the contest locally for a chance to win prizes such as tablet computers, e-readers, and MP3 players.

Other Fun Contests

Siemens' We can Change the World Contest - Student teams of 2-3 research and solve a community issue that they truly want to impact. Teams will compete for prizes such as trips and a $5,000 savings bond.

Bubble Wrap Competition for Young Inventors - Students in grades 5-8 have the opportunity to demonstrate their ingenuity by creating an invention the incorporates the use of Bubble Wrap cushioning. Prizes include a trip to New York City and a $10,000 savings bond.

Gloria Barron Prize for Young Heros - Students ages 8-18 must be nominated by a qualifying adult for their leadership and courage in developing and implementing an exceptional service project. Ten students will each receive a $5,000 cash award to support their service work or higher education.

The Institue for Global Environmental Strategies - This organization has contests for art, photos and other projects which are open to students of various ages.

Rubber Band Contest for Young Inventors - Sponsored by the Alliance Rubber Company, it is a contest for students in grades 5-8 to create an invention that incorporates the use of rubber bands. More than $20,000 in prizes will be awarded.

Amazing Kids! Contest - Check out the site for art, music, video, and writing contests for children of all ages.