WV Disability History Essay Contest

Dear West Virginia High School Seniors:

The Disability History Contest Committee is pleased to announce the 2024 Disability History Essay Contest in West Virginia! This contest is designed to provide you with an opportunity to showcase your writing skills, share what you have learned about the Disability Rights Movement, use your ability to form and express opinions, and perhaps to earn some money to help you into your future! All WV high school seniors are invited to submit an entry. Contest rules are located on the entry form – be sure to read them carefully and follow ALL the rules. 

All entries must include the completed entry form and must comply with all contest rules. Points will be deducted for failure to follow the rules, including failure to use “people first language”.  (see http://peoplefirstwv.org/disability-etiquette/ or https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=obbwb1bJ5io ).

The essay topic this year is: 

“In 2023, the federal Rehabilitation Act of 1973, which was incorporated as Title IV of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act in 2014, celebrated its 50th anniversary. Discuss how this historical legislation has advanced access to and equity in employment opportunities for people with disabilities in your community.”

The top award will be presented to the state winner, and awards may be presented to first place and second place entries from six Districts of our state. The awards are as follows:

• State Winner............................................................... $3,250
• District First Place (6)................................................. $1,750
• District Second Place (6)............................................ $1,000

The West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services has generously provided funding for all awards.

All entries must be submitted electronically by E-mail with the paper form or the online entry form, both located below, by midnight on December 15, 2023 to:

WV Statewide Independent Living Council

Subject Line: Essay Contest 

E-mail: trish.cash@wvsilc.org 

(If you need assistance submitting your essay call 855-855-9743 toll free.)

This contest is a collaborative effort of the WV Division of Rehabilitation Services, the Statewide Independent Living Council and the State Rehabilitation Council, with cooperation from the WV Department of Education.