Democrats in Davis County are trying to teach students about the importance of the Constitution while filling their piggy banks at the same time.
This winter Democrats will sponsor an essay contest for eighth-graders in the Davis County School District with prizes totaling $1,000.
The essay topic, "What the Constitution Means to Me," was chosen to help students understand how the Constitution, though written more than 200 years ago, still applies to Americans today.
"We felt like the Constitution is an important document," said Robert Van Velkinburgh, publicity director for Davis County Democrats.
He said the Democrats wanted to start the contest this year because it might heighten interest in the Constitution for local students.
The contest will run from now to Jan. 6. First place will receive a $500 savings bond and $100 in cash; second place will receive a $200 savings bond and $100 in cash; and third place will receive a $100 savings bond and $100 in cash.
Students interested in entering the contest can contact their social studies teachers for more information. Prizes will be awarded sometime in February, probably near Presidents Day, Van Velkinburgh said.