"You Choose" 2025 MLK Day Student Contest

In preparation for our community’s 26th annual celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, all Lakota students are invited to participate in a contest.

This year’s "You Choose" theme challenges students to choose one of Dr. King's lesser known speeches, sermons or readings - anything other than his most famous Mountain Top (I have a dream..") speech. Students are asked to reflect on all or part of the piece and how it personally impacts them. The contest is part of the community-wide observance of MLK Day, known as the "Live the Dream: Our Declaration of Unity" celebration.

Students in grades K-12 have the option to submit in writing the equivalent to a two-minute speech. They may also choose to respond through any artistic medium of their choice. 

In addition to individual entries, classes, troops, or youth organizations for students in grades K-12 who would like to enter the contest as a group project are invited to be as creative as possible, with skits, songs, artwork or videos that can be presented within a two-minute time limit.

All entries must be submitted electronically via the 2025 “Live the Dream” student contest entry form. Each individual entry must be submitted separately; please do not upload multiple students' entries on a single form.The deadline for entering is Tuesday, Nov. 26, 2024 at 4:00 p.m.

Winners will share their entries with the public as part of the community celebration, to be held on January 20, 2025 following a march that extends from West Chester Township to Liberty Township.  Additionally, entries may be shared with the community through various venues throughout the duration of January and February.

Click here to access complete contest details and requirements, including this year’s full contest prompt.