“The Four-Way Test” in Today’s World: a Rotary Essay Contest for High School Students

Rotarians of District 6080,which includes most of mid-Missouri, are pleased to invite students in grades nine through twelve to enter the annual Rotary essay contest.

What is Rotary? Rotary International is a service organization of more than 1.2 million members representing more than 33,000 clubs in more than 200 countries.

What is the Rotary Four-Way Test? Of the things we think, say, or do

  1. Is it the truth?
  2. Is it fair to all concerned?
  3. Will it build goodwill and better friendships?
  4. Will it be beneficial to all concerned?

What is the essay topic? In an essay of 500 to 1000 words, discuss the Rotary Four-Way Test’s relevance in your world and ways it can be used to promote ethical standards.

What are the awards? First place: $300; Second place $200; Third place $100. Top three finalists must be willing and able to attend the Rotary District Enclave in April—Lake of the Ozarks location and date to be announced–where they will read their essays for final judging. Students must be willing to present their essays in person for final judging. Final awards will be based on both essay content and oral presentation.

Who can enter? Any student in grades 9-12

How do students submit entries? Students should submit a typed, double-spaced essay for judging no later than March 1st to the following address:

Rotary District 6080 Speech Contest
420 Meadow Brook Drive
Jefferson City, Mo. 65109

Essays should include a cover sheet with the title of the essay, the student’s name, address, home phone number, and name and address of current high school. All pages should be stapled together in the upper left-hand corner.