DAP Contest Overview

Managing DAP Contests

DAP contests engage students creatively while reinforcing drug prevention messages. As State Chair, you're responsible for promoting contests, coordinating judging, and ensuring winners are properly recognized. Well-run contests generate positive publicity and deepen school relationships.

Types of DAP Contests

Essay Contest

Students write essays on drug prevention themes. Typically offered at multiple grade levels with age-appropriate prompts. Essays allow for deeper exploration of topics and develop writing skills.

Poster Contest

Students create visual art promoting drug-free messages. Appeals to artistically inclined students and produces tangible materials that can be displayed. Often popular with younger students.

Video Contest

Students create short videos with drug prevention messages. Engages students comfortable with digital media and produces shareable content. Usually for older students with access to technology.

Contest Structure

DAP contests typically flow through multiple levels:

1. School/Lodge Level: Local judging selects winners to advance
2. District Level: District Chair coordinates judging of lodge winners
3. State Level: You coordinate judging of district winners
4. National Level: State winners may advance to national competition

Annual Contest Calendar

A typical contest year:

• August-September: Announce contests, distribute materials to schools
• October-November: Students create entries (often tied to Red Ribbon Week)
• December-January: Lodge and district judging
• February: State judging
• March: Submit state winners to national competition
• April-May: National judging and winner announcements
• State Convention: Recognize state winners

Confirm specific deadlines with national DAP each year.

Promoting Contests

Contest success depends on participation:

• Provide Lodge Chairs with promotional materials and talking points
• Create enthusiasm by sharing past winning entries
• Communicate clear deadlines and submission requirements
• Highlight prizes and recognition opportunities
• Make it easy for schools to participate

Common Challenges

Low participation: Start promotion early and make multiple contacts with lodges.

Missed deadlines: Send multiple reminders and be clear about consequences of late entries.

Quality concerns: Provide examples of strong entries and clear judging criteria.

Judging disputes: Use standardized rubrics and multiple judges.