The Enquirer Launched Student Speech Contest
The nationwide competition invites students to submit mock presidential speeches for the nation's 250th anniversary.
Updated on Oct. 8, 2026 in Secondary Education
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The Enquirer has launched the Make Your Speech contest, a national event inviting students in grades 5-12 to deliver mock presidential speeches. This initiative is held in partnership with USA TODAY and SUNN to honor the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States.
Why it matters
The competition encourages civic engagement among young students by tasking them with crafting and performing presidential-style addresses. It serves as an educational outreach effort tied to the nation's milestone 250th anniversary celebration.
Eligible participants include students in grades 5-12, with entries requiring a 2-3 minute video and the full written text of a speech. Parents or guardians are required to submit entries for any students aged 12 and younger.
The players
The Enquirer
This media organization is the primary sponsor and organizer of the national student speech competition.
USA TODAY
A national news outlet that is partnering with the organizers to facilitate the speech contest.
SUNN
This organization is collaborating on the national educational initiative for students.
The details
Students are asked to create a mock presidential speech that will be evaluated in separate middle school and high school categories. Participants must upload their video and written speech text through an online portal to be considered for the competition.
Timeline
October 30, 2026: The submission portal for the contest closes at midnight Pacific time.
Culture Shift
The contest follows a pattern set by the 250th anniversary of the United States, utilizing civic-themed educational programs to engage younger generations. This reflects a broader trend of leveraging milestone historical celebrations to foster public discourse and youth participation.
Students across the country can participate by preparing their video and written speech materials for digital submission. Those aged 12 and younger must ensure a parent or guardian manages the upload process through the official portal before the deadline.
The takeaway
Students interested in participating should focus on crafting a clear and compelling message that fits within the strict 2-3 minute video requirement. Starting the drafting process early will allow ample time for students and parents to navigate the submission portal requirements.
Further reading
For more information on national student programs, visit the Secondary Education section.
Live Poll
Does student participation in mock political events strengthen the future of our democracy?
