Civics Moonshot
Civics Moonshot Overview
Type
MD Two Fifty Signature Program
Organizer
MD Two Fifty Commission and Maryland Humanities
About
To celebrate the U.S. Semiquincentennial and help renew our commitment to civic engagement, a middle school field trip program, high school essay competition, and community college engagement series will provide unique educational opportunities for Marylanders.
Website
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Field Trip Program
Where History Lives: Field Trip Program
The goal of this program is to help middle school students connect with Maryland’s rich and complex history through firsthand experiences that bring learning to life. Funding may be used to support transportation and admission costs for eligible field trips.
As part of Maryland’s 250th anniversary commemoration, the MD Two Fifty Commission, in partnership with Maryland Humanities, is pleased to offer funding to support middle school (6th-8th grade) field trips to museums, historic sites, and parks across the state.
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, subject to available funding. Approved schools or organizations will receive funds directly and will be required to submit a brief post-trip report, including reflections following their visit.
Additional questions about the program may be directed to Emily Ross by emailing eross@mdhumanities.org.
Essay Contest Program
Envision Maryland: A Statewide High School Essay Competition
As Maryland marks its 250th anniversary, we are calling on the next generation to add their voices to this milestone moment by describing the future chapter of our state’s story and sharing their vision for Maryland’s future in 50 years.
Themes to Consider: Students may address any aspect of Maryland’s future, including but not limited to: community and belonging, environmental sustainability, innovation and economy, education, culture and identity, democracy and civic engagement, transportation and infrastructure, public health, or arts and culture.
Competition Details
Eligibility: High school students in grades 9, 10, 11, and 12
Essay Length: Maximum 300 words
Deadline: Friday, October 16, 2026
Awards:
MD Two Fifty will recognize outstanding student visions for Maryland’s future. $75 awards will be presented to one winner in each grade (9th, 10th, 11th, 12th), in each Maryland county and Baltimore city.
Statewide prizes for first, second and third place winners will be awarded $300, $200, and $100. Statewide honorable mentions (up to 3) will receive recognition and certificates.
All winning essays will be published on MD Two Fifty and Maryland Humanities websites and featured in various communications.
Additional questions about the program may be directed to Emily Ross by emailing eross@mdhumanities.org.
Student Civic Forums
MD Two Fifty Student Civic Forums: A Community College Civic Engagement Series
Through this initiative, we will host four activities across Maryland college and community college campuses, bringing local, county, and state officials into direct conversation with the students who will one day lead and shape these very institutions. Students will have multiple ways to engage: they can sign up to serve as moderators, submit questions, or attend as active participants. The aim is to showcase the importance of civic participation so that students can see themselves being part of the decision making process.
Stay tuned for updates and events in Fall 2026!