Every year, my office celebrates Hispanic Heritage month by inviting students from Southwestern Connecticut to participate in an essay contest detailing how a Hispanic or Latino leader has inspired them. I hope you will consider joining this year and I look forward to reading your submissions!

Hispanic Heritage Month Essay Contest Details:

Eligibility Criteria: All students enrolled in elementary, middle, or high school in Connecticut’s Fourth Congressional District are eligible to participate.

Topic: Students should reflect upon a Hispanic or Latino individual who has inspired them and helped shape their aspirations. The essay should also include an overview of the role model’s contributions to the United States and the significance of their legacy to American history.

Word Limit:

Elementary School (Grades K-5): Between 75-150 words.

Middle School (Grades 6-8): No more than 300 words.

High School (Grades 9-12): No more than 600 words.

*Students may submit photographs with their essays*

**Please note: all essays should include a parent/guardian name, home address, email address, and phone number as well as the student’s name, grade, and school name.**

Be sure to check back over the summer for details about the 2026 competition!

Congratulations to our 2025 Hispanic Heritage Month Essay winners Annelyn, Analia, and Jezzmariah! Read their winning essays

below:
Elementary School Category:
Toquam Magnet Elementary School, Stamford
Middle School Category:
Tomlinson Middle School, Fairfield

High School Category
Notre Dame Prep of Sacred Heart University, Fairfield
Thank you to every student who shared a story about how Hispanic icons have impacted you and your community.
¡Felicitaciones a nuestras ganadoras de 2025 Annelyn, Analia, e Jezzmariah! Lea sus ensayos ganadores a continuación:
Elementary School Category:
Toquam Magnet Elementary School, Stamford
Middle School Category:
Tomlinson Middle School, Fairfield
High School Category:
Notre Dame Prep of Sacred Heart University, Fairfield
Gracias a cada estudiante que compartió una historia sobre cómo los íconos hispanos los han impactado a ellos y a su comunidad.