The Optimist International Essay Contest is now open and the District first place winner will be awarded a $2,500 college scholarship. This contest is open to all students who are under age 18 on October 1, 2016. The topic of the 700-800 word essay is “Chasing Optimism in the Face of Challenges”. Students will also need to include a copy of their birth certificate with their application. Students can pick up an application for the essay competition in the Counseling Center and the deadline to enter is December 9, 2016.