The Pasco County supervisor of elections is partnering with county schools to sponsor an essay contest for fourth-grade students.

The contest is called "What Freedom Requires Responsibility Means to Me."

The students who write the winning essays will receive a cash prize. The winning essay will be presented as part of the Pasco County Schools second-annual district-wide Veterans Day Ceremony on Nov. 11.

The essay should be at least 500 words and should be submitted by email to tbentley@pascovotes.com by 5 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 6.

Officials say they hope the contest will teach children the importance of civic duties and encourage parents to vote.