The VFW Patriot’s Pen is a youth essay contest. It encourages middle school students to write about American history. Sometimes, you might need to reach out to schools about it.
Need to write a letter to a school about the Patriot’s Pen contest? You’re in the right place. We’ll provide samples and examples to help.
This article offers letter templates. Use them to easily communicate with schools. Make your outreach effective and simple.
How to Write VFW Patriot’s Pen Sample Letter To Schools
Subject Line: Capturing Attention from the Get-Go
- Your subject line needs to be more than just a cursory mention.
- Consider something like: “Ignite Patriotism: Announcing the VFW Patriot’s Pen Essay Contest” or “Empower Young Voices: VFW Patriot’s Pen Competition Invitation”.
- A compelling subject line drastically improves open rates.
Salutation: Addressing the Right Person
- “Dear Principal [Name],” or “Dear School Administrator,” are dependable choices.
- If you have a specific contact for extracurricular activities or essay contests, direct your salutation to them.
- Personalization manifests respect.
Introduction: Setting the Stage
- Clearly state the purpose of your letter in the opening paragraph.
- Mention the VFW Patriot’s Pen youth essay contest and its significance.
- Briefly touch upon the contest’s objective: fostering patriotism among middle school students.
- Example: “I am writing to introduce the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Patriot’s Pen essay contest, an esteemed opportunity for students to cultivate their understanding of American patriotism.”
Body Paragraph 1: Delving into the Details
- Provide essential contest information.
- Include eligibility requirements (grades 6-8), the essay theme for the current year, and the word count limit.
- Clarify the submission deadline and where essays should be submitted (local VFW post).
- Example: “The Patriot’s Pen is open to students in grades 6-8. This year’s theme is [Insert Theme]. Essays should be no more than 400 words and must be submitted to [Local VFW Post Contact Information] by [Date].”
Body Paragraph 2: Highlighting the Benefits
- Emphasize the advantages for students and the school.
- Mention potential scholarship awards for winners at the local, state, and national levels.
- Underscore the contest’s role in nurturing critical thinking and writing skills.
- Suggest that participation enhances students’ civic engagement.
- Example: “Participating in the Patriot’s Pen not only provides students with the opportunity to win significant scholarships but also empowers them to hone their expressive capabilities and deepen their appreciation for civic virtues.”
Call to Action: Encouraging Participation
- Directly encourage the school to promote the contest to its students.
- Offer to provide informational materials, such as flyers or posters.
- Suggest visiting the official VFW website for additional resources and guidelines.
- Example: “We earnestly implore you to disseminate information about the Patriot’s Pen contest to your students. We are prepared to furnish you with promotional materials to facilitate this endeavor. Further details can be found on the VFW website.”
Closing: Expressing Gratitude and Contact Information
- Use a professional closing, such as “Sincerely,” or “Respectfully,”.
- Include your name, title (if applicable), and contact information (phone number and email address).
- Express your appreciation for their time and consideration.
- Example: “Thank you for your time and consideration. Please do not hesitate to contact me with any queries. Sincerely, [Your Name], [Your Title], [Your Contact Information].”
VFW Patriot’s Pen Sample Letter to Schools: FAQs
This section addresses frequently asked questions regarding sample letters to schools for promoting the VFW Patriot’s Pen youth essay contest.
It aims to provide clarity and guidance for VFW members and volunteers seeking to engage schools in this important program.
What is the purpose of a sample letter to schools?
The purpose is to provide a template for VFW members to use when contacting schools to inform them about the Patriot’s Pen essay contest and encourage student participation.
Where can I find a sample letter?
Sample letters are typically available on the official VFW website, in VFW program guides, or from your local VFW Post.
What information should the letter include?
The letter should include a brief introduction to the VFW and the Patriot’s Pen contest, eligibility requirements, essay topic, deadlines, award information, and contact details for the local VFW Post.
How should I customize the sample letter?
Customize the letter by adding specific details about your local VFW Post, any local awards or recognition, and a personal touch to connect with the school’s administration or teachers.
Who should I send the letter to at the school?
The letter should be addressed to the school principal, the English department head, or a teacher who oversees writing or civics programs.
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