TOPIC: 
Contestants can choose between the three following topics:
(1) Proud to be Bilingual
(2) My Heritage
(3) Being Multicultural

CATEGORIES:
ESSAY
Elementary: 
Grades 3-5
Middle/ Jr. High: Grades 6-8
High School:  Grades 9-11

PRIZES/ AWARDS:
1st place:   
High School: Certificate and $50
Middle/ Jr. High: Certificate and $30
Elementary: Certificate and $20
*Mileage stipend and lunch provided for winner and parents to attend awards ceremony.

ELIGIBILITY:
*Participation is limited to students who are learning English as a second language and who are in an ELL or bilingual program.
In order for essay winners to be considered at the national level (NABE), the following criteria must be met:
*Students must be in a bilingual program.
*Students must have a “B” average.
*Students must have a 90% school attendance rate or better.

ceremony during the Annual IABE State Conference in October.
* A video taped presentation may be submitted if the participant is unable to attend.

DEADLINE:
Dec. 1, 2009

JUDGING:
*Each submission will be judged on (1) development of theme, (2) originality,  (3) content and clarity of expression, and (4) grammar and mechanics.
*A panel of judges will be selected by the IABE Board of Directors.

ESSAY:
Criteria:
*Language: 
Submissions may be written in English or the student’s native language.  An English translation must accompany the submission if submitted in another language.
* All essays must address the given topics.
* All essays must be TYPED and DOUBLE SPACED.
*Length: The number of words must be recorded at the end of each essay.
The length of the essay MUST be:
Grades 3-5:  150-200 words

Grades 6-8: 250-300 words
Grades 9-11:  350-500 words

APPLICATION:
An application form must be stapled to the front of each essay and poem. 
*Names can NOT appear on the essays.

SUBMISSION:
All entries are to be made by a teacher with knowledge of the student’s language background and eligibility. 
Submit to:
Marta A. Hernandez
BJHS
700 W. 16th St.
Burley, ID  83318