2015 Masonic Essay Program
The 2015 Masonic Essay program is offered by Unity Lodge, # 32, Ancient Free and
Accepted Masons of the State of Idaho, which is located in Genesee, Idaho, and is composed of
Brother Masons from the areas of Genesee, Whitepine Area (Deary, Bovill), and Kendrick,
Idaho.
The competition is open to graduating Seniors of the 2015 class of the High Schools in
the respective areas served by Unity Lodge (Deary HS, Kendrick HS, and Genesee HS) who will
be continuing on to an accredited program of higher education (college, trade school, or other
program acceptable to the Lodge Scholarship Committee). One $200 prize will be offered (the
winning submission will be selected from the pool of all submissions received from the
eligibility areas), which will be paid to the educational program/institution of the winning essay
author.
Students wishing to submit an entry should return their essay to the guidance counselor of
the applicable school by May 7, 2015 for collection by a Lodge representative.
2015 Topic
Education has always been a Masonic focus (the pursuit of “Truth” is a Masonic goal),
and a cherished American focus as well. Basic compulsory education (mandated by law) was in
America as early as the Plymouth Colony. While individual states adopted it at different times,
compulsory education has been established--through sovereign state power--in all 50 states since
1918, and educational standards have historically evolved on a state-by-state basis.
In the 1990’s, a number of states, concerned that differing national standards produced
graduates of such varied “real world” ability that America’s competitiveness was being globally
compromised, joined through the National Governor’s Association and Council of Chief State
School Officers in a “Common Core Initiative” to standardize educational requirements. While a
majority of states are participants in this initiative, it has produced a firestorm of attention,
especially since the federal government has chosen to favorably weight “common core” adoption
in consideration of competitive federal educational grants.
Supporters of the Common Core Initiative believe that adoption of more consistent
nationwide educational standards will make American diplomas more valuable and keep
America and American graduates competitive in a global employment marketplace. Opponents
believe that adoption of national standards (even if officially done through individual state
action), pose a threat to local sovereignty and self-regulation, and invite federal abuse of
education through (and/or for) centralized control.
What do you think of these efforts?
In an essay of 500-1000 words, choose one or more aspects of these matters which interest you,
and explain how it or they are important to life in America today. Give specific examples if
possible, and be as thorough and convincing as possible within the word limit allowed. The
winning essay shall be selected from among the eligible submissions received, and selection
shall be made in the sole judgment and discretion of the Lodge Scholarship Committee.
Please direct any questions or inquiries to:
Brother M. Stanton, W.M., Unity Lodge #32. (208) 877-1248