This contest is designed to support the fifth grade study of Connecticut. Its objectives are to stimulate pride in Connecticut, heighten awareness of our state's many historical, cultural and entertainment offerings, encourage good citizenship, and reinforce creative writing skills consistent with the Connecticut Mastery Test. This contest will provide students with an opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge and skill as part of an exciting statewide program.

The 2009 topic for the Connecticut Essay Contest was: "What can you do to help protect the environment and prevent global warming?”

Each year participating teachers are asked to review all the essays written by their students and select 15 per school to send to the Secretary of the State. Essays are reviewed by a panel of judges and winners are invited to participate in an awards ceremony held at the State Capitol.  This year, the award ceremony was held on January 22, 2009.