Gaithersburg, MD - (January 24, 2023) The City of Gaithersburg announces its Junior Mayor contest for the 2022-23 school year. It is held annually in conjunction with a statewide “If I Were Mayor…” essay contest sponsored by the Maryland Municipal League (MML), the Maryland Mayor’s Association, and the Chesapeake Employers Insurance Company.

Fourth graders are invited to share what they would do if they were Mayor. This year’s essay theme, “Preserving the Past to Power the Future,” asks students to write about the traditions, beliefs, or events they believe shaped their city/town/community. The theme encourages them to consider which of those traditions, beliefs and events they would keep and which they would change, and why. Lastly, students share how they would get people to participate in accepting their proposed changes. Essays are limited to 275 words or less.

Entering this contest provides an opportunity for students to learn more about local government and get involved in their communities. This past year, Gaithersburg had the pleasure of welcoming Loriele Nix from Summit Hall Elementary School as its Junior Mayor. 

Mayor Jud Ashman has prepared a special video message for Gaithersburg 4th graders to encourage contest participation. Click here for the YouTube video.

To be eligible for the Gaithersburg Junior Mayor contest, students must be residents of the City of Gaithersburg. Essays will be reviewed by City staff and members of the Educational Enrichment Committee, and finalists will be invited to participate in a panel interview. One winner will be selected as Gaithersburg Junior Mayor, with the opportunity to participate in programs and special events throughout the year. The winning Gaithersburg essay will also be published on the City’s website. The program includes the opportunity for the Junior Mayor to host a service project involving his/her/their classmates, elected officials and City staff.

The deadline for entries for the Gaithersburg Junior Mayor contest is March 1. The deadline to submit essays for the Maryland Municipal League contest, which is open to all Maryland residents, is March 31. For complete submission instructions and information visit the City’s website at www.gaithersburgmd.gov.