Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was more than his famous “I Have a Dream” speech. He challenged racism, poverty, economic injustice, and the systems that perpetuate inequality.
Clever Communities in Action invites high school students to explore King’s ideas, examine their relevance today, and share their own perspectives through the MLK: Beyond the Dream Youth Essay Contest.
Who Can Enter?
Students in grades 9–12 attending schools in Etowah and surrounding counties are eligible to participate.
FIRST PLACE
SECOND PLACE
THIRD PLACE
Ready to take on the challenge? Before writing your essay, carefully review the materials below. Each document will help you understand the essay prompt, rules and expectations.
We encourage you to take your time with the readings, think critically about King’s ideas, and develop your own perspective.
Remember: Your essay must reflect your own thinking and writing. Generative AI tools are not permitted.