B”H
Cteen Gala Jewish Essay Contest
Win cash for Israel or Jewish summer or gap year or educational programs.
Skokie Cteen
2026
Eligibility:
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Attend at least 5 Cteen events during the current school year at Skokie Cteen
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Attend at least one overnight Cteen event during the current school year.
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For Jewish teens in high school, grades 9-12.
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Be present at the Cteen Gala on May 26, 2026 to possibly receive the award.
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Submit the essay directly to Yona Posner by May 19, 2026.
Prizes:
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One grand prize of $1000 to be used for one of the following:
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Jewish summer camp program
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Gap year Israel program
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Approved Jewish educational school or program
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This award is stackable and may not be used to reduce other institutional grants and scholarships.
Essay Requirements:
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An essay, article, or short story describing actual events, not fiction.
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Describe and reflect upon your commitment to Jewish identity and observance as an independent mature person.
Answer at least one of the following:-
How have you actively grown in your Judaism this year? What did you do?
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What has inspired you? What roles did your parents, teachers or friends play in shaping you?
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How has your experience at Cteen helped to form your identity?
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What challenges (internal and/or external) have you had to overcome?
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How do you see yourself identifying as a Jew and observing Judaism as an adult?
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Between 500 to 1500 words.
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Include a cover page listing the title of your essay, your name, your contact info, your parents’ contact info, and your current school and grade. Your name should appear only on the cover page. Please do not put your name on any page of the essay. The title should be on all pages of the essay.
Judging:
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Essays will be judged based on the following criteria:
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Authenticity and sincerity
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Demonstration of real growth and commitment
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Organization and clear presentation of narrative
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For more information, please contact Rabbi Yochanan or Yona Posner.
