(FREEHOLD, NJ) -- The MonmouthNJ 250 Committee is accepting entries for a Semiquincentennial Poetry Contest for Monmouth County students in grades three through six in recognition of America's 250th birthday. This contest invites students to write a poem reflecting upon what patriotism means to them. The deadline for submission is May 16, 2025 and winners will be announced by June 1, 2025.

“In honor of famous Monmouth County poet Philip Freneau, we are inviting students to write an original poem about America,” said Monmouth County Commissioner Director Thomas A. Arnone, Co-Chair of the MonmouthNJ 250 Committee. “Through their poems, students are invited to share their voices, dreams and reflections on what America means to them.”

This year’s contest is open to all students grades three through five who reside in and/or attend school in Monmouth County, NJ. Prizes will be awarded for each grade level. The winning essays will be showcased on the MonmouthNJ250.org website and social media channels and will be highlighted throughout the Semiquincentennial celebration.

Submissions may be sent via email to [email protected] with the subject, “Freneau Student Poetry Contest,” and poem attached in either Word Document or PDF format; or via mail to MonmouthNJ 250 Committee, Attn: MonmouthNJ 250 Freneau Student Poetry Contest, 33 Mechanic Street, Freehold, NJ 07728.

Full contest eligibility and rules may be viewed or download in PDF format https://monmouthnj250.org/student-poetry-contest/.

“Philip Freneau was born in New York City in 1752 and moved with his family to Monmouth County in 1762,” said Monmouth County Clerk Christine Giordano Hanlon, Co-Chair of the MonmouthNJ 250 Committee. “From the age of 10, he lived in Middletown Point, which today is known as Matawan. Freneau became known as the ‘Poet of the American Revolution’ because he wrote about the War and inspired people to join the fight for freedom against the British.”

To learn more about the MonmouthNJ 250 Committee and other events surrounding the celebration, go to MonmouthNJ250.org or follow on Facebook, Instagram and X @MonmouthNJ250.