WV Disability History Essay Contest

Dear West Virginia High School Seniors:

The Disability History Essay Contest Committee is pleased to announce the 2025 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 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=obbwb1bJ5io ).

The essay topic this year is: 

“In 2006, a group of West Virginia youth helped to pass the law establishing Disability History Week, which requires disability history to be taught in all West Virginia public schools. Consider the barriers (including physical, attitudinal, communication, economic, etc.) faced by people with disabilities, and discuss your ideas on eliminating barriers and enhancing independent living and employment opportunities for West Virginians with disabilities.”

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 20, 2024 to:

WV Statewide Independent Living Council

Subject Line: Essay Contest 

E-mail: trish.cash@wvsilc.org 

(If you need assistance submitting your essay call 304-766-4624)

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.