PA Contest for Students Open for Submissions

April 4, 2026 6:43 am

Students across Pennsylvania are encouraged to participate in contests created by the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania Historical Commission to mark our nation’s 250th birthday. The contests celebrate our state’s and nation’s history, while encouraging students to learn about the work and role of the courts. Winners will be notified May 8 and recognized by the Pennsylvania Supreme Court at the May 18 oral argument session at the Capitol in Harrisburg. The first is a coloring contest open to students ages 5-11 and gives young students the opportunity to create their own judge. The second is an essay contest open to students in grades 3-12. The essays are being judged on creativity and overall quality when answering the following questions: “Why is the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania important?” (Grades 3-5) and “Which Pennsylvania Supreme Court Justice inspires you and why?” (Grades 6-12). Students and parents are encouraged to submit photo entries on Instagram by tagging @pennsylvaniacourts or essay entries can be submitted by email to CommunicationsOffice@pacourts.us or mail to: AOPC Communications, c/o Stacey Witalec, 601 Commonwealth Ave., Harrisburg, PA 17106. The deadline for entries is April 24.