09/01/2026
In addition to the 7th- 12th grade September School Counseling Newsletter, I would like to share a couple of scholarship opportunities for 5th- 12th grade students (Due October 31):
The Patriot’s Pen program is open to students in grades 6–8 and challenges participants to write an original 300–400-word essay on an annual patriotic theme. Eligible students must be enrolled in a public, private, parochial, or home-study program and submit their entry through a participating VFW Post. The national first-place award is $5,000. Judging is based on knowledge of the theme, theme development, and clarity of ideas. [vfw.org]
The Voice of Democracy program is open to students in grades 9–12. Participants prepare and record an original 3–5 minute audio essay in their own voice on the annual patriotic theme. Eligible students must be enrolled in a public, private, parochial, or home-study program and submit their entry through a participating VFW Post. The national first-place scholarship award is $35,000. Judging is based on originality, content, and delivery. [vfw.org], [vfw-org-hq...zurefd.net]
Both programs encourage civic engagement, constitutional understanding, patriotism, and appreciation for the service and sacrifices of America’s veterans. They also provide students with meaningful opportunities to strengthen their writing, research, critical thinking, and communication skills. [vfw.org], [vfw.org]
