My Inspirational Teacher Essay Contest

<p><!-- wp:paragraph --></p> <p>To celebrate Teacher Appreciation Week in May, Senator Wilcox is hosting a “My Inspirational Teacher” essay contest. Middle/Junior High students in grades 6-8 are asked to submit an essay of 250-500 words about one teacher who has been a great inspiration to them. Students should provide details about how a teacher specifically inspired them and how their guidance led to student success.</p> <p><!-- /wp:paragraph --></p> <p><!-- wp:paragraph --></p> <p>Essays must be submitted no later than <strong>April 24, 2026</strong>, to <strong>thankateacher@sgop.ilga.gov</strong>. Each entry must include the child’s name, school, and grade level, the teacher’s name, the teacher’s school, and the subject taught.</p> <p><!-- /wp:paragraph --></p> <p><!-- wp:paragraph --></p> <p>Essays will be evaluated based on the following criteria:</p> <p><!-- /wp:paragraph --></p> <p><!-- wp:paragraph --></p> <p>Persuasiveness<br />Correct Spelling and Grammar<br />Adherence to Contest Instructions</p> <p><!-- /wp:paragraph --></p> <p><!-- wp:paragraph --></p> <p>Winners will be notified via email, and winning essays will be posted at SenatorWilcox.com and displayed at the State Capitol in Springfield in the first floor rotunda.</p> <p><!-- /wp:paragraph --></p> <p><!-- wp:paragraph --></p> <p>Questions about this essay contest should be directed to Abby at amccarthy@sgop.ilga.gov. </p> <p><!-- /wp:paragraph --></p>