Polly Rosenbaum Writing Contest

Congratulations to the 2012 Polly Rosenbaum Writing Contest Winners »

The Polly Rosenbaum Writing Contest is named for Polly Rosenbaum, a former Arizona State Representative and teacher who passed away in 2003 at the age of 104. This writing contest is a long-standing tradition honoring Mrs. Rosenbaum, who believed Arizona’s young people are the state’s greatest resource.

The creative writing contest is open to students in grades 7 through 12. Criteria and entry forms are made available to schools statewide in October and are accessible online. Entries are judged in three age categories: 7th/8th Grade; 9th/10th Grade; and 11th/12th Grade. The selection process includes a review in January by educators and business leaders who judge each entry on the following criteria: proper grammar and word usage; relevance to the established theme; creativity; and effective use of the 6-trait writing rubric.

Every participant receives a letter of commendation and a commemorative pen. First, second and third place winners in each of the three age categories are invited for lunch and a ceremony in February on Statehood Day at the State Capitol in Phoenix. They receive a certificate from the Governor and are invited to read their winning essays aloud. In addition, first place winners receive a $50 gift certificate to the Capitol Museum Store; second place winners receive a $25 gift certificate and third place winners receive a $15 gift certificate.

Each year the Arizona Educational Foundation and “Polly” sponsor APS establish a theme for the contest. The theme for the 2012 Polly Rosenbaum Writing Contest is “What Is My Commitment to Civic Engagement?”