Student Opportunity — Senate of Pennsylvania Ceremonial Celebration

As Pennsylvania marks the 250th anniversary of the United States, the Pennsylvania Senate will hold a ceremonial celebration on Tuesday May 5, 2026, at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia to commemorate this historic milestone.

In partnership with America250PA, one high school student from the 6^th Senatorial District, along with a parent or guardian, will have a chance to join Senator Farry and the Pennsylvania Senate for this historic event.

Due to the anticipated interest in the 6^th Senatorial District, high school students in grades 9-12 with an interest in government or civic engagement will be asked to submit a short essay to help a panel select a representative.

This is a rare opportunity for a student to represent the 6^th Senatorial District at a once-in-a-generation commemoration of America’s founding. I hope you will consider applying and sharing your essay with me.

Essay Prompt (between 250 and 500 words):

“Which Founding Father or historical figure from the Founding Era, do you find most relatable to you or find most inspiring and why?”

Essay Requirements:

Essay is due no later than March 29, 2026, 11:59pm
May include cited sources (optional)
Should reflect your own thoughts and perspectives. While use of artificial intelligence (AI) for research is acceptable, AI may not be used to write or compose any part of the essay.

A small panel of community members consisting of educators and veterans will review the submissions and select a group of finalists. One finalist will then be chosen at random through a lottery to represent the district.

A travel stipend may be provided by America250PA based on the distance from the National Constitution Center.

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Please list your participation in civics/governmental groups or describe what interests you in government. (100 words or less)(Required)

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Max. file size: 98 MB.

Acknowledgment(Required)

This work reflects my own thoughts and perspective. I further state that no artificial intelligence was used for the writing of this essay.

Participation(Required)

By submitting this essay, I am also stating that I am able and available to participate in the trip to Philadelphia on Tuesday, May 5, 2026.

Consent(Required)

I understand, by submitting my essay, I am allowing Senator Farry to keep it and to publish it in any manner via digital copy, hard or physical copy on his official Facebook page, digital weekly newsletters or his annual district-wide newsletter.