Students are asked to submit a short essay in response to the contest’s prompt: Who do you consider a hero?
A hero is someone who shows courage, kindness, or a strong commitment to helping others, even when it is not easy. In your essay, describe a person you consider a hero and explain what makes them heroic. You may write about someone you know, someone in your community, or someone who inspires you.
Purpose
The events of September 11, 2001, remind us of a day when our country faced great loss but also witnessed extraordinary courage, unity, and selflessness. First responders, ordinary citizens, and communities came together to help one another. While many people showed incredible bravery that day, heroism isn't only found in history.
In observance of 25 years since the events of September 11th, the Town of Rolesville invites students to participate in a community-wide essay contest recognizing the courage, compassion, and service demonstrated not only on that day, but every day by heroes in our community.
This initiative encourages students to reflect on the meaning of heroism and to honor those who make a difference through acts of service, whether in moments of crisis or in everyday life.
Who can enter
Open to students who are in or entering grades 3-12 in Rolesville and the surrounding communities.
Submission Guidelines
- Must be the student’s original, unpublished work
- Must not exceed one page
- Must include the student’s first name, grade level, and school
- Must be submitted by the deadline, July 24, 2026
- Online entries must be submitted as a PDF file
- For students under 18, parent/guardian consent is required
How to Submit Your Essay
Submit essays using the form below. Essays can also be submitted in person at Rolesville Town Hall, 502 Southtown Circle, Monday-Friday between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. by July 24, 2026. Entries received after the deadline will not be considered.
Submission and review process
All entries submitted to the contest will be evaluated by a panel of at least 3 judges. The essays shall be judged using a rubric based on the following criteria:
- Relevance to theme
- Organization and structure
- Impact
- Inclusion of supporting examples/details
- Originality
- Grammar and spelling
Recognition
Prizes will be awarded by age groups: Grades 3-5, Grades 6-8, and Grades 9-12.
Selected essays will be featured on the Town’s website and social media. Authors of selected essays will be announced to the public on September 1, 2026, at the Board of Commissioners meeting.
Winners will be recognized and receive awards on September 12, 2026, at the 9/11 Remembrance Event.
One author from each grade category will be invited to read their essay aloud. All participants in attendance will have the opportunity to join a group photo with Mayor Currin and the Board of Commissioners.
Important Dates
Submissions accepted starting June 1, 2026.
Submission Deadline is July 24, 2026.
Winners will be notified by August 28, 2026.
Winners will be announced September 1, 2026.
Questions?
If you need assistance or have questions regarding the application process, contact Christy Frazier, Town Clerk.
Phone: 919-556-3506 ext. 112
Email: cfrazier@rolesvillenc.gov
Mailing Address: P.O. Box 250 / 502 Southtown Circle, Rolesville, NC 27571