In 2026, the United States will mark our Semiquincentennial: the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Soon-to-be-President Trump already declared we will have a huge party celebratig this event.

Today’s young people are the leaders, innovators, and thinkers who will shape the next 250 years. Because of this, it is important their voices are heard as we commemorate this historic milestone.

America’s Field Trip is a contest that invites students across the country in grades 3–12 to be part of America’s 250th anniversary by sharing their perspectives on what America means to them. With this comes the opportunity to earn an unforgettable field trip experience at some of the nation’s most iconic historic and cultural landmarks.

Students are asked to submit writing or original artwork in response to the contest’s prompt: “What does America mean to you?”

Submissions will be accepted until Wednesday, April 16, 2025 at 5:00 p.m. ET.

For the 2024-2025 America’s Field Trip contest, 25 first-place awardees from each grade level category and a chaperone will receive airfare and lodging for a 3-day, 2-night trip to a select historical or cultural site.  Second-place winners will receive a $500 cash award. The teacher associated with the top scoring student submissions in each grade level category will receive a $1,000 cash award.

There are rules, suggestions, and guidelines. But do not delay. Get thoughts together now.