The National Council for the Social Studies (NCSS) is pleased to announce The 1787 Prize, an annual essay contest for high school students in grades 11-12 introduced on the observance of Constitution Day.

About the 1787 Prize

“The consent of the governed” is a foundational principle upon which our nation’s government is built. Indeed, the “just powers” of our 1787 Constitution were directly legitimized by ratification of the people in pathbreaking citizen conventions. Today, the freedoms we hold dear are embodied in rules and laws we democratically have a voice in crafting.

The 1787 Prize brings those citizen voices back to center stage. It recognizes the best annual student essay on the subject of the U.S. Constitution’s past, present and future relevance by exploring how our written principles align with this vision of citizen engagement. 

Eligibility

The 1787 Prize is open to all high school students in grades 11-12. An essay may be submitted with up to three student co-authors. There is a maximum of one submission per high school.

Essay requirements are:

  • Between 1,000 – 2,500 words;
  • Includes a footnote and bibliography; and
  • Incorporates a mix of primary and secondary sources.

Award

One award will be announced in the amount of $2,500. The $2,500 prize amount will be split among any co-authors. 

2024-2025 Essay Prompt

  • The concept of Judicial Review, let alone Judicial Supremacy, is thinly proscribed in Article III. With the benefit of hindsight, how would you modify Article III to directly address the role of the courts in settling issues of constitutional interpretation?

Essays are due to NCSS by 5:59 a.m. ET on April 1, 2025. Visit The 1787 Prize Application webpage for more information on how to submit. The 1787 Prize Selection Committee will then review all submissions and announce a winner on June 11, 2025.

Please email awards@ncss.org for any questions about this award, eligibility, timeline, and selection process.