As students return to classrooms across Georgia, another exciting Georgia Laws of Life Essay Contest season is about to begin.

Over the next several weeks, teachers will introduce students to the concept of a "Law of Life,” a value, principle, or life lesson that guides their decisions. Students will begin reflecting on the people, experiences, and moments that have shaped who they are, often discovering that their own stories are worth telling.

As one participating teacher shared, "Students are engaged by the writing task, and it is a great way to start the year by writing a meaningful narrative." As classrooms fill with new faces and fresh opportunities, the Georgia Laws of Life Essay Contest encourages students to begin the school year by reflecting on what matters most and sharing the stories that have shaped their lives.

For many students, this assignment becomes much more than an essay. It is an opportunity to build confidence, strengthen communication skills, and find their voice through reflective writing. For teachers, it is an opportunity to get to know their students in a way no other assignment allows. Thank you to the Rotary Clubs across Georgia whose partnership makes this life-changing experience possible.

Join Us for the Teacher & Rotarian Workshop Luncheon

Kick off the 2026-2027 contest year by joining educators, Rotarians, volunteers, and supporters from across Georgia at our annual Teacher & Rotarian Workshop Luncheon on Friday, August 21, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. at the Emory Conference Center Hotel.

This year's featured speaker is Duane Carver, a 2008 Georgia Laws of Life State Winner whose journey from homelessness to becoming a successful attorney illustrates the lasting impact of Georgia Laws of Life and Rotary.

You'll also hear from teachers and Rotary volunteers as they share how the contest is transforming students and communities across Georgia.

Please register by August 17, seating is limited.

Save the Date: Founder's Celebration - Tuesday, October 20!

This year, we're excited to host our signature annual event at a new location, Dunwoody Country Club, after many wonderful years at Piedmont Driving Club.

The Founder's Celebration is our biggest and most festive event of the year, bringing together Rotarians, educators, business leaders, and community supporters to celebrate the top winning essays from across Georgia. The evening honors the remarkable students whose reflections on their Laws of Life inspire us all, while also recognizing the dedicated teachers who encourage, mentor, and inspire students to share their stories.

Be part of this year's Founder's Celebration! Sponsorship opportunities are now available for businesses and organizations that want to align with a statewide program that champions character education and amplifies student voices. To learn more, contact Bob Hagan, D6900 PDG, at bhagan@sterling-health.com or Carol Gray Walker, GLL Executive Director, at carol@georgialawsoflife.com .

Thank you to our 2025 business and Rotary sponsors: Delta Community Credit Union, North Metro Rotary Council, Paragon Alarm Systems, Peach State Federal Credit Union, Roswell Rotary Club, Rotary Club of Midtown Atlanta, The Cottage School and Trainz, for investing in Georgia's students and helping make last year's celebration a success.