✍️ 2025 VFW Youth Scholarship Competitions Now Open!
WHS Students: Enter to Win Cash Prizes and National Recognition
The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) is once again sponsoring two incredible patriotic-themed competitions for students — and Woodsville High School is encouraging ALL eligible students to participate! Whether you’re a talented writer, confident speaker, or just passionate about civic engagement and supporting our veterans — these contests are for YOU.
🎤 Voice of Democracy (Grades 9–12)
Format: Audio Essay (3–5 minutes, recorded)
Theme: “How Are You Showing Patriotism and Support for Our Country?”
This long-standing competition challenges high school students to write and record an original essay that explores what patriotism means in their lives today. You’ll have a chance to reflect, research, and use your voice to make an impact — all while competing for major scholarships.
💵 Local Prizes – Sponsored by VFW Post 5245:
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🥇 1st Place – $500
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🥈 2nd Place – $400
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🥉 3rd Place – $300
🌟 National Prize:
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The national winner earns a $35,000 scholarship paid directly to the college, university, or vocational school of their choice!
More than 26,000 students across the U.S. participate each year — could YOU be next?
🖊️ Patriot’s Pen (Grades 6–8)
Format: Written Essay (300–400 words)
Theme: “How Are You Showing Patriotism and Support for Our Country?”
Middle school students are invited to explore America’s values and share their personal perspective on what it means to support our country in today’s world. Whether through volunteer work, civic involvement, or honoring our veterans — every voice matters.
💵 Local Prizes – Sponsored by VFW Post 5245:
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🥇 1st Place – $200
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🥈 2nd Place – $150
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🥉 3rd Place – $100
🌟 National Prize:
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The national winner earns $5,000!
More than 60,000 students enter this contest nationwide each year, and it’s a great way to practice writing skills while standing up for what you believe in.
🗓️ Important Details & Deadlines
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All entries are due to Mr. Nichols by 🕛 October 31st
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All students must complete the official 2025–2026 entry form
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For details, rules, and entry forms, visit:
👉 www.VFW.org → Community tab → Youth & Education → Youth Scholarships
NOTE: WHS students are encouraged to reach out to Mr. Nichols in the Library with questions, brainstorming ideas, or help with recording essays.
🚀 Why You Should Enter:
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Win cash prizes locally — even if you don’t place nationally
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Represent WHS and your community
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Use your voice to inspire patriotism and civic pride
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Boost your college applications with an impressive scholarship entry
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And most importantly — because your voice matters 🇺🇸
🎓 Let’s Bring Home a Win for WHS!
Whether you choose to write, speak, or both — now is the time to showcase your values and creativity. We know our Engineers have what it takes. Let’s make a strong showing in this year’s VFW competitions!
