Empowering Tomorrow's Leaders
Washington Constitutional Speech Contest
Join us in fostering a deeper understanding of the U.S. Constitution and developing essential leadership skills among high school students.
March TBD, 2026
Moses Lake, WA
Educational Excellence
Encouraging students to explore the foundational principles of the United States of America.
Leadership Development
Building the next generation of articulate and informed leaders.
Scholarship Opportunities
Providing financial support to help students achieve their academic goals.
About the Contest
The American Legion’s National High School Oratorical Scholarship Program, also known as “A Constitutional Speech Contest,” aims to instill a more profound knowledge and appreciation of the U.S. Constitution in high school students. Through this program, students develop critical thinking and public speaking skills, preparing them for the responsibilities of American citizenship. Participants compete for scholarships at both the state and national levels, with the ultimate goal of fostering a well-informed and articulate youth.
Scholarship Opportunities
State Level Scholarships
Scholarships totaling $5,000 are awarded at the state level. The state winner receives a $2,000 scholarship and an expenses-paid trip to compete in the National Finals.
National Level Scholarships
The National Finals offer a scholarship pool of $203,500, providing significant financial support to top contestants, with the top award being $25,000.
Leadership and Citizenship
Beyond scholarships, the contest helps students develop leadership qualities and a deeper understanding of their rights and responsibilities as citizens.
Our Objectives
Key Contest Goals
Leadership Development
Fostering leadership skills among high school students through structured speech preparation and delivery.
Citizenship Responsibilities
Encouraging students to understand and embrace their civic duties and rights as American citizens.
Constitutional Knowledge
Enhancing students’ understanding and appreciation of the U.S. Constitution through in-depth research and oration.
Public Speaking Skills
Improving students’ ability to articulate their thoughts clearly and confidently in public settings.
Critical Thinking
Promoting analytical thinking and the ability to construct logical arguments based on constitutional principles.
Scholarship Opportunities
Providing financial support for higher education through scholarship awards for contest participants.
Application Process
How to Apply for the Contest
