2025Vol42No3NBUJournal

KIDS ESSAY CONTEST

“Home Means Nevada” Wildlife Essay Contest Nevada’s wildlife inspires stories worth telling. This fall, we’re inviting students across the state to share what our wild places and animals mean to them in the “Home Means Nevada” Wildlife Essay Contest. Entries are grouped by grade level so every student—from emerging writers to seniors—can participate with age-appropriate prompts. Who Can Enter All Nevada students in four grade bands: K–2nd grade, 3rd–5th grade, 6th–8th grade, and 9th–12th. Submissions should follow the guidelines for each grade level listed below. Prompts by Grade K–2nd Grade Describe your favorite Nevada animal. What does it look like? Where does it live? Why do you like it? (50–150 words; 3–5 sentences; handwritten or typed). 3rd–5th Grade What is the coolest Nevada animal, and why? Convince others why it’s the best. (150–300 words; handwritten or typed). 6th–8th Grade Which Nevada animal is most important to the state’s environment, and why? Support your opinion with reasons. (300–500 words; typed preferred). 9th–12th Grade Which Nevada animal best represents the state’s spirit—or faces the greatest challenges? Make your case with evidence. (500–800 words; typed, double-spaced).

How to Enter Deadline: December 3, 2025 11:59pm PST.

Submission: Essays can be emailed to nbuewes@gmail.com or mailed to NBU, PO Box 21393, Reno NV 89515 or delivered in person at our Ugly Sweater Bingo Night on December 3, 2025 at the Wal. Include a cover page with student name, grade, and contact information. Essays must be the student’s original work.

Evaluation Essays will be evaluated by a panel of educators, wildlife experts, and community members using a grade-appropriate rubric that recognizes clear writing, authentic voice, and strong connections to Nevada’s wildlife. See Rubric on the next page. Prizes Each grade group will have 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners. Prizes include $100, $50, and $25 Scheels gift cards . Outstanding entries may also be featured in our publications.

Judging From desert tortoises and bighorn sheep to jackrabbits and wild horses, Nevada’s animals shape our landscapes—and our identity. This contest encourages students to reflect on those connections and share their perspectives with the broader community.

Questions? Reach us at nbuewes@gmail.com. We can’t wait to read what Nevada’s wildlife means to you!

Victor Trujillo

NBU Journal . Volume 42 . Number 3 30