The deadline is Nov. 1 for entries in VFW Post 4676’s annual essay contests for local middle and high school students, and its K-12 teacher award.

“The Patriot’s Pen” essay contest, sponsored by the Ladies Auxiliary, is open to students in grades 6-8. First-, second-, and third-place winners at the Post’s local level win cash awards of $100, $75, and $50 as well as the opportunity to advance to the district competition ($500), state ($1,000), and nationals (35 U.S. savings bonds from $1,000 to $10,000).

This year’s theme is “Why America’s Veterans Should Be Honored.” Essays must be typewritten in English, with no graphics, and need to be 300-400 words in length. Contact is Mary Stone at 599-8864.

“The Voice of Democracy” scholarship contest is open to students in grades 9-12. First-, second-, and third-place winners at the Post’s local level win cash awards of $300, $200, and $100. This year’s theme is “Service and Sacrifice by America’s Veterans Benefit Today’s Youth By …” These 3-to-5-minute essays must be tape-recorded and typed. Contact is George Smoot at 658-9163.

“Teacher of the Year” is open to teachers in K-12, nominated in writing (350 words or less) by fellow teachers and administrators on the basis of how they promote civic responsibility, flag etiquette and patriotism.

Teacher awards are made at the local, state, district and national levels and include $1,000 to the teacher and $1,000 to his or her school.

Entries must be submitted to: Scholarship Chair, VFW Post 4676, 202 W. Aviation Blvd., Universal City, Texas 78148-4303.