WASHINGTON -- Inauguration officials say some D.C. middle and high school students could literally write their own ticket to prime seating at President-elect Barack Obama's inaugural parade.
Officials are inviting D.C. public and private school students to write a 500-word essay that answers the question: "How can I contribute to my neighborhood through community service?"
More than 100 students with the best essays will be chosen to sit in stands in front of the White House for the Jan. 20 parade.
Officials say the essays must be submitted by a parent or legal guardian who lives in D.C. The Presidential Inaugural Committee will select the winners. Winning students will receive three tickets for seating next to a viewing stand reserved for Obama and other dignitaries.
Essays should be submitted to http://www.pic2009.org/page/s/dcstudentessay by 11:59 p.m. on Jan. 11.
