The deadline for eighth grade students to submit essays for the Dartmouth Rotary’s annual contest is May 27.

The contest is open to all eighth graders in Dartmouth Middle School. Students should answer the following prompt: how can a middle school student make a difference - what does community service mean to me? Essays should include specific examples of personal volunteering experiences.

Essays are limited to between 500 and 1,000 words, must be typed in 12 point font and will be judged by Rotary members.

Plaques will be awarded to the winner, first runner up and second runner up. The winner will also receive a $50 gift card to Barnes & Noble. Also, a $150 gift card will be given to a local charity of the winner’s choice.