As the United States prepares to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, students across Davis School District will have the opportunity to take center stage and share their perspectives on the nation’s past, present and future.
On May 4, 2026, Davis School District will host
Voices of a Nation: Student Perspectives on 250 Years of America
, a districtwide speaking event aligned with America 250 Utah. The event will be held at the Davis School District Instructional Services Center in Layton and will feature student speakers representing elementary, junior high and high schools from across the district.
The celebration is designed to elevate student voice while honoring the milestone anniversary of America’s founding.
An Invitation to All Students
Students from every school and grade level are invited to apply to deliver an original speech connected to the theme America 250. Topics may explore founding principles, civic responsibility, innovation, leadership, personal identity, cultural heritage or hopes for the nation’s future.
Speech length will vary by grade level:
Elementary School: Up to 3 minutes
Junior High: Up to 5 minutes
High School: Up to 7 minutes
Selected students will present their speeches during one of several sessions throughout the day. Each session will feature a mix of grade levels.
Mentorship and Preparation
Students selected to participate will receive mentorship and support from a teacher or district staff member to help guide the writing, revision and rehearsal process.
Important preparation milestones include a draft checkpoint in April and a full tech check and rehearsal on May 1 to ensure students are prepared for the May 4 event.
A Community Celebration
Due to venue capacity, in-person attendance will be limited to families, educators, invited community partners and state representatives. The event will be professionally produced and live streamed to extend access to the broader community. Recordings will also be shared digitally following the event.
How to Apply
Students must submit:
A completed application form
A proposed speech topic
A one-minute video introducing themselves and describing their idea
The video does not need to be edited or professionally produced. Reviewers will focus on stage presence, clarity, originality and connection to the America 250 theme.
Applications are due
March 18, 2026
. Selected students will be notified prior to spring break.
America is 250 years in the making.
Now it is time to hear from the next generation.
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