Kids Pitch New Laws in Pennsylvania Civics Contest

State government can feel distant to many Americans, especially young students who often learn about civics only through textbooks. But a creative initiative out of Pennsylvania is working to change that by inviting elementary school students to step into the role of lawmakers themselves.

Pennsylvania State Rep. Kristin Marcell is once again opening the doors to civic engagement for young people through her 3rd Annual “Ought to Be a Law” Contest, a program designed to introduce fourth and fifth grade students to the legislative process in a hands-on, meaningful way.

Teaching Civics Through Creativity

The contest encourages students in the 178th Legislative District to think about issues that matter in their communities and propose original ideas for new Pennsylvania laws. Rather than memorizing how a bill becomes a law, participants are challenged to imagine what laws they believe should exist and why.

Students are asked to submit a written proposal explaining their idea in as much detail as possible. Entries must be no longer than one double-spaced page, either typed or clearly handwritten. Submissions must be entered individually and include the student’s name, school, and grade.

The goal is simple but powerful: get young people thinking critically about how laws can solve real-world problems and how state government impacts everyday life.

How the Contest Works

Entries for this year’s contest are due by April 10, 2026. Students can drop off their submissions at Rep. Marcell’s Richboro office by 4 p.m. on the deadline date or mail them with a postmark by that same day.

Every student who participates will receive a participation award, reinforcing that civic engagement itself is worth celebrating. An independent panel of judges will select the winners, who will be notified by May 15. Winning students and their immediate families will also be invited to attend a special lunch and award presentation with Rep. Marcell.

Families and educators seeking additional details are encouraged to contact Rep. Marcell’s Richboro office directly for more information about how to participate.

Last Year’s Ideas Show Real-World Thinking

Past winners highlight the thoughtful and practical ideas students bring to the table when given the opportunity. In last year’s contest, a fifth-grade student proposed requiring schools to teach financial basics beginning in third grade, emphasizing the importance of early financial literacy. Another student received honorable mention for suggesting that residents participate in one day of volunteering each year, reflecting a desire to strengthen community involvement and service.

These examples demonstrate how young people are already thinking about issues that affect families, schools, and neighborhoods. Programs like this provide a structured way for students to explore civic responsibility while building confidence in their own voices.

Why Programs Like This Matter

At a time when many Americans worry about civic disengagement and declining trust in institutions, initiatives that introduce students to the legislative process early can have long-term benefits. Encouraging children to think about laws not as abstract rules, but as tools to solve problems, helps demystify government and makes civic participation feel accessible.

By inviting students to imagine solutions and articulate them clearly, the “Ought to Be a Law” contest blends civics education with creativity, writing skills, and critical thinking. It also reminds families and educators that cultivating engaged citizens starts long before students are old enough to vote.

For students who participate, the experience may be a first step toward a lifelong interest in public service, community leadership, or civic involvement. For the broader public, it’s a reminder that the next generation is already thinking about how to make their communities stronger.