RESPECT LIFE ESSAY CONTEST

Junior Division (Grades 6-8)

​Every baby is an unrepeatable miracle whose life begins at the moment the sperm fertilizes the egg. Each has a soul and is created by God, and when we talk with others about this baby, it helps to shine a light on her uniqueness. Choose one stage of a preborn baby’s development (first trimester, second, or third). Explain the development in this stage (what the baby can do, what he looks like, etc.). Then address three concrete ways you can help others see the humanity of the baby in this stage.

​Write 500 words responding to the essay prompt. Have your parent, legal guardian, or teacher submit your essay using this form.

If you have any issues submitting your essay using the form, you can email it directly to [email protected]
Deadline: May 5, 2025
Senior Division (Grades 9-12)

Human beings are unique, special, and unrepeatable miracles of God created in His image. Choose one pro-life topic (abortion, IVF, euthanasia, etc.) and explain what it is, why it is a threat to human beings, and how, in your school or community, you will speak out against this practice, defend the vulnerable, and teach the value of every person.

Write 750 words responding to the essay prompt. Have your parent, legal guardian, or teacher submit your essay using this form.

If you have any issues submitting your essay using the form, you can email it directly to [email protected]

Deadline: May 5, 2025
College Division

Human beings are unique, special, and unrepeatable miracles of God created in His image. Choose one pro-life topic (abortion, IVF, euthanasia, etc.) and explain what it is, why it is a threat to human beings, and how, in your school or community, you will speak out against this practice, defend the vulnerable, and teach the value of every person.

Write 1000 words responding to the essay prompt. Please submit your essay using this form.

If you have any issues submitting your essay using the form, you can email it directly to [email protected]

Deadline: May 5, 2025
2025 Contest Rules
  • Only one entry permitted per contestant.
  • By submitting an entry, the student and parent or guardian confirm that the essay is original, previously unpublished work of the student, and agree to allow Johnson County Right to Life to reprint the winning essay, along with the student's picture.
  • Only essays that respond to the essay prompt will be considered.
  • Cite any sources used.
  • The contest is open to students in grades 6-12 and college.
  • Participant must be a resident of Johnson County, IA.
  • All essays must be submitted by a parent, legal guardian, or teacher (college students excluded).
  • All submissions become the sole property of Johnson County Right to Life, which reserves the right to edit submissions for publication.
  • We accept electronic submissions only; you can submit your entry below. If you have any trouble, let us know and we’ll help.
  • Use the appropriate Google form to submit all contact information:
  • Junior Division | Senior Division | College
  • Deadline: May 5, 2025. Winners will notified by May 31, 2025
CASH PRIZES

Junior Division (Grades 6-8)
$200 (1st), $150 (2nd), and $100 (3rd)

Senior Division (Grades 9-12)
$300 (1st), $250 (2nd), $200 (3rd)

College Division 
$300 ​(1st), $250 (2nd), $200 (3rd)