The Cities of Gaithersburg and Rockville are hosting their annual Junior Mayor contests for fourth-grade students, inspired by the statewide “If I Were Mayor…” essay contest. These exciting initiatives allow young residents to learn about local government and share their ideas on improving their communities.
Gaithersburg Junior Mayor Contest: Eligible participants must be City of Gaithersburg residents. Essays must be 275 words or less, focusing on the theme “Building Community for a New Generation.” Students should consider their community today and how they would strengthen it as Mayor. The submission deadline is March 28, 2025. All essays should include the student’s name, address, school name, and teacher’s name.
Judging will be conducted by the City’s Educational Enrichment Committee, with the top five scorers invited for interviews. The Junior Mayor will be announced in the spring and will have the opportunity to read their essay at a City Council meeting. Additional information on Gaithersburg’s contest can be found here.
Rockville “If I Were Mayor…” Contest;
Fourth graders in Rockville have until March 7 to enter the Maryland Municipal League’s statewide “If I Were Mayor” essay contest. This year’s theme is also “Building Community for a New Generation.” Students are asked to write a 275-word essay on how they would improve their city and foster inclusion. One winning essay will be chosen from each of MML’s 11 districts, with winners receiving a cash prize and a citation from the governor.
In addition, Mayor Monique Ashton will select a student from Rockville to serve as the city’s Mayor for a Day in May. For more information on the Rockville contest, including submission forms, visit mdmunicipal.org/mayors-essay-contest.