Whip out the sneakers as well as the word processor: A Europewide education association is adding a little fresh air to its current encyclopedia of contests.

The new contest, open to seventh- through 12th-graders, tasks students to write any essay on what physical fitness means to them. That contest joins an existing category of “What does the environment mean to you?”

Prizes for either include a $200 savings bond from the European Congress of American Parents, Teachers and Students.

Other contests and events in the works are:

¶ Reflect on courage: The education group is also accepting entries for the national Reflections Program, said its president, David Mattingly. According to the National PTA, which hosts the program throughout the United States, Reflections offers students the opportunity to create works of art for fun and recognition. Students in preschool through 12th grade are encouraged to compose and submit works of art in literature, musical composition, photography and the visual arts.

Each year’s contest has a theme. This time its “Signs of Courage.”

¶ Spelling bee: The congress is hosting a European-wide spelling bee on March 29 at the Schwabian Inn at Patch Barracks in Stuttgart, Germany. Winners will compete at Scripps-Howard National Spelling Bee in Washington, D.C., on May 28 and 29.

¶ Scholarship time: High school juniors and seniors can apply for $1,000 scholarships by entering projects themed “Heroes of September 11.” To enter, pick up an application packet with project guidelines from a high school counselor.

For entries or additional information on any of these competitions, contact your local parent-teacher group or call DSN 489-7273 or civilian +49-(0)-631-536-7273.

Migrated