The information here is designed to provide ideas for putting on a “Good Citizen” or “Good Citizenship” Award Contest for young Americans in grades K – 12. The information assumes a different type of contest for elementary, middle, and high school.

The goals of such a contest are to:

• make students aware that they are citizens of a country and that citizens in a democracy have a critical role in ensuring the country stays free and safe.
• help students understand the types of actions required of them to be effective citizens and that citizenship goes well beyond voting, jury duty and community service.
• give students the belief that individual actions make a difference and that being a good citizen can be fun and rewarding.

The competition is also designed to give students the opportunity to develop their critical thinking and presentation skills.