The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit has officially opened the 2026 Sixth Circuit Civics Contest, inviting high school students (grades 9-12) from Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio and Tennessee to participate.

This year’s theme – “250 Years of Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness: The Judiciary’s Role in Upholding America’s Promise” – encourages students to explore the connection between the Declaration of Independence and the judiciary’s ongoing role in protecting constitutional rights.

Students are asked to create an original graphic public service campaign poster accompanied by a written description of up to 500 words. Submissions will be judged on clarity, creativity, relevance, and technical quality. The first-place winner will receive a $1,000 award.

The deadline to apply is March 27 at 11:59 p.m. ET. Email submissions to: CA06-Civics_Contest@ca6.uscourts.gov.