From the Contest Website: 

Who can participate?

If you are in grades 3-5, you can participate in our Level One contest.

If you are in grades 6-8, you can participate in our Level Two Contest.

What is the challenge?

Level One: After viewing videos and reading about Bo and the Elephant Refuge North America (ERNA), write the following narrative, “Pretend you are Bo, the elephant. You have just arrived at ERNA. Describe your first day. Be sure to use emotions, descriptions and facts.”

Level Two: After viewing videos and reading about Bo and the  Elephant Refuge North America (ERNA), write the following essay. “Explain the advantages Bo will have living at ERNA. Be sure to use facts that explain how the environment is a positive habitat for an elephant like Bo.”

Where can I find videos and information about Bo, EAI, and elephants?

You will find all the information you will need at our web page.  Be sure to check out the Bo’s Arrival and Learning Center pages!

What are the rules?

1. The essay should be in your own words. You may have a peer or an adult assist you with editing, but the piece should be your own ideas. Remember the writing must be yours!
   • Level One: Your piece should be no more than 200 words.
   • Level Two: Your piece should be no more than 300 words.
2. Your essays must be typed in English.

Did you mention prizes???

First Place in Both Levels

• $35 (in celebration of Bo’s Birthday!)
• A certificate
• A special t-shirt from EAI
• A virtual visit to your classroom from Carol Buckly and Bo!
• Your work published on our website
• Elephant Ambassadorship

Second Place in Both Levels

• A certificate
• A special t-shirt from EAI
• Elephant Ambassadorship

Judging

The essays will be judged by a panel of elephant enthusiasts on content, accuracy, creativity, passion, and adherence to the topic.

How and when do I submit my writing piece?

1. All submissions must be received by midnight (EST) on January 22, 2022. This is Bo’s 35th birthday!
2. All submissions must include your piece of writing and be submitted via the appropriate form (more details below).
3. Your writing piece should have the following information in the upper right hand corner: Your full name, email, word count, level of contest you are entering. (If a teacher is sending submissions as a class, please include teacher name and school name.)
4. Teachers: you may submit one form with several entries, if you so wish.

To fill out the submission form or if you need more information, click HERE.