Local high schoolers invited to federal essay contest

High school students across several Central Florida counties, including those in the Ocala area, are invited to participate in an essay contest focused on fostering unity among diverse interests to achieve common goals.

The United States District Court, Middle District of Florida, through the Middle District Bench Bar Fund and the Orlando Chapter of the Federal Bar Association, is sponsoring the competition. Students in grades 9-12 residing in Brevard, Orange, Osceola, Seminole, and Volusia Counties are eligible to enter.

The contest challenges participants to analyze how individuals can bridge differences to work towards a collective objective. Submissions are due by September 23, 2026.

Significant cash prizes are available for top essays. First place will receive $2,000, second place $1,000, and third place $500. Students placing fourth through tenth will each receive $150.

In addition to student awards, teachers of the top three winners will receive a $500 classroom grant. The school with the most qualifying submissions will be awarded a $1,000 grant.

The first-place winner will also gain a unique opportunity to shadow an Orlando Division United States District Judge for a day. A teacher may qualify for only one classroom grant, even if they have multiple student winners.

The top ten essays are scheduled to be announced on November 12, 2026, with the final winners revealed on December 2, 2026.

Past winning essays from 2023, 2024, and 2025 are available for review by interested students, teachers, and parents.

For further information and contest rules, individuals can contact Hannah Osment, Public Outreach Coordinator, via email at Hannah.Osment@fedbarorlando.com.