CANTON — The BBB Charitable & Educational Fund, Inc. is sponsoring an essay contest eligible to Ohio Valley high school seniors that could reward them with scholarships up to $2,500.

The BBB Life Lessons Essay Contest — a theme-based essay contest that challenges students to reflect on living a life of integrity and ethics — is now accepting submissions. The essays are submitted online and reviewed by a panel of judges. The top six essays will be awarded scholarships ranging from $500 to $2,500.

The scholarship is open to area high school seniors attending schools in the BBB’s 64-county service area which includes 12 counties in Ohio and 52 counties in West Virginia. Students in Belmont, Harrison, Jefferson and Monroe counties in Ohio are eligible, as are students in Hancock, Brooke, Ohio, Marshall, Wetzel and Tyler counties in West Virginia.

There is no GPA requirement to apply, and scholarship funds are used towards attending any career, technical, college, university or trade school after high school graduation.

The theme for the 2026 essay contest is “civility.” Civility in the workplace involves treating colleagues with respect, courtesy and kindness, including active listening and consideration of others’ perspectives. Entrants should describe a personal experience that taught them the importance of respectful communication and courteous behavior, and explain how this experience would influence the way they act as a leader in the marketplace or within a future organization.

“This year’s Life Lessons Essay Contest encourages students to share their voices on the importance of civility in everyday interactions and professional settings. Learning to communicate with respect and integrity is essential for long-term professional success and personal dignity,” said John Richard, BBB Charitable & Educational Fund chair. “We are excited to support students as they engage with this theme and compete for a scholarship to further their education.”

Essay submissions will be accepted through March 6. Students, teachers and parents can read more about eligibility, view instructions on how to apply and submit entries at bit.ly/CantonBBBLifeLessonsEssayContest.