Back to SOS News & Media Center >>
HELENA, Mont. — Montana Secretary of State Christi Jacobsen has launched the 2026 Constitution Contest, igniting statewide enthusiasm as public, private, and homeschools quickly joined in following its Constitution Day kickoff.
This year’s contest introduces a new postcard-based submission format, making participation simpler than ever for Montana students and educators. Teachers can request ready-to-use postcards featuring the prompt: “What does freedom look like in Montana?”
After the postcards arrive, students write or draw their response, drop the card in the mail, and enter the contest.
“We wanted to make this year’s Constitution Contest more accessible than ever for students and teachers, and we’re thrilled to see the response,” Secretary Jacobsen said. “We’ve already received requests for thousands of Constitution Contest postcards, demonstrating a strong appetite for meaningful civic education opportunities across Montana.”
Teachers may also request copies of the Declaration of Independence for their classrooms through the same request form.The contest materials are available to all students and teachers at no cost.
“The Constitution Contest gives students of all ages an opportunity to express their creativity, reflect on the meaning of freedom, and engage with the principles that shape our country,” Secretary Jacobsen said. “I’m grateful that schools from every corner of Montana are reaching out to participate in this exciting program.”
Teachers can request a Constitution Contest postcard packet by completing the form at https://sosmt.gov/civics-youthvote/constitution-contest/.
Secretary Jacobsen also encourages teachers and parents to save the date for YouthVote, which opens October 5, 2026. YouthVote is a program that helps students gain experience with casting a ballot and participating in the electoral process. More information will be released in the coming weeks.