10 students will each win a $2,500 cash prize.

WASHINGTON—August 23, 2007–-Reconnecting The Circle™ (RTC) announces its second National High School Essay Contest to be held from October 15 – November 30, 2007, in coordination with the National Native American Indian Heritage month.  RTC, in partnership with the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI), the Boys and Girls Clubs of America, and the Boys and Girls Clubs in Indian Country, have launched a national campaign to promote the contest.

All high-school aged students (grades 9-12) from tribal, public, private and parochial schools from all 50 states are invited to participate. Up to 10 winners will each receive a $2,500 cash prize.

According to RTC President Danielle Gaines, RTC's programs seek to encourage children and adolescents to share their experiences, explore facets of Indian Country, and seek accurate information on both historical, as well as contemporary Native American topics. "The Reconnecting The Circle essay contest asks a very important question about Indian Country and provokes research, as well as self-exploration by high school students," said Gaines.

The contest runs from October 15 – November 30, 2007. Contest details will be on the RTC website, www.reconnectingthecircle.com. The essay question will be posted on the website Friday, October 12. RTC hope to include more programs throughout the year with educational materials and opportunities for community involvement to be announced on the website.

Jacqueline Johnson, NCAI's Executive Director, says the organization is happy to be a partner in promoting the national essay contest hoping that it will help to create a better understanding of American Indian people throughout the United States. "We are excited to be a part of the essay contest. November is National Native American Indian Heritage Month, which is a perfect time for young people to reflect upon the contributions and issues that American Indians have face in the past and what they continue overcome in today's society," said Johnson.

For information on how to receive an application packet for your school or for information on sponsorship opportunities or our initiatives, please visit the RTC website at www.reconnectingthecircle.com or contact us via email at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it .