Enquirer Launched National Student Speech Contest
Students in grades 5-12 can submit mock presidential speeches for a national contest commemorating the U.S. 250th anniversary.
Updated on Oct. 8, 2026 in Secondary Education
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The Enquirer has launched the Make Your Speech contest in partnership with USA TODAY and SUNN. The competition invites students in grades 5-12 to submit a 2-3 minute video along with the written text of a presidential speech.
Why it matters
The contest aims to engage young citizens in the democratic process to honor the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States. It provides a platform for students to practice public speaking and civics on a national stage.
Eligible students include those in grades 5-12, with entries categorized by middle school and high school levels. The submission portal is currently active and accepts entries for the 250th anniversary commemoration.
The players
The Enquirer
A media organization hosting this nationwide civics-focused speech competition.
USA TODAY
A national news publication partnering to support student engagement in the contest.
SUNN
A media entity collaborating to facilitate this educational initiative for students.
The details
To enter, students must create a 2-3 minute video and provide the written text of their mock presidential speech. Submissions are handled via an online portal where parents or guardians must submit materials on behalf of any students aged 12 or younger.
Timeline
October 30, 2026: The contest submission portal closes at midnight Pacific time.
The Home Front
This contest aligns with a national trend of educational institutions and media outlets creating civics programming ahead of the 250th anniversary of the United States. It mirrors efforts to increase student engagement in government through structured, extracurricular participation.
If your student is interested, check their speech text and video for clarity before navigating to the online portal to upload the files. Parents of students aged 12 and younger must manage the submission process through the portal.
The takeaway
This contest offers a chance to integrate national history and public speaking into your student's academic routine. Before the October 30, 2026 deadline, ensure your student has both the written manuscript and the finalized video file ready for upload.
Further reading
Find more opportunities for student engagement in our Secondary Education section.
Live Poll
Does student participation in mock political events strengthen the future of our democracy?
