The following is a release from Snohomish County:

Attention Snohomish County elementary and middle school students: Break out your pencils and paper – better yet your computers, tablets or smart phones. The Snohomish County Clerk’s Office and Superior Court are encouraging local students to enter the second annual National Center for State Courts essay contest.

This year’s theme – bullying – is sure to draw some good thoughts, and competition. In 100 words or less, third to fifth graders must answer: What should you do if you or a classmate is being bullied?

Middle school students (sixth to eighth graders) must answer the following in 100 words or less: Why is bullying an issue? And what can you, your school, your parents and your classmates do to stop it?

“I think this year’s theme is really going to resonate with our students,” said Snohomish County Clerk Sonya Kraski. “They’re already talking about it with their friends, in class and on social media. This contest gives them the opportunity to share their thoughts and ideas in a different forum.”

“This issue affects everyone in our communities, and we have to approach solutions together,” said Snohomish County Superior Court Presiding Judge Michael Downes. “The best place to start is with our young people. We need to know what they’re thinking.”

All submissions are due Feb. 27, 2015. Winners will receive Amazon gift cards. Complete contest details are available at www.ncsc.org/contest.