The essays of the Do the Write Thing Texas Challenge challenge young authors from various sites across Texas, represent 30,000 students who accepted the challenge to behave responsibly and to engage in positive pursuits.

As you read the essays, remember that they were written by middle school students and that the pressures on our youth have never been greater. These papers are a compelling and insightful look at the violence too many of these students face every day. What is especially encouraging, however, is their resolve to set positive examples. They write of their personal responsibility to help build a strong and good society, and they strive to offer constructive suggestions.