State fairgoers who want to cool off and enjoy a fun photo break should stop by State Treasurer John Perdue’s SMART529 display at the WVU Building during the State Fair of West Virginia, which runs Aug. 12-21.

A cutout photograph opportunity is in acknowledgment of the 10-year anniversary of the Treasurer’s SMART529 “When I Grow Up” essay contest. Each year, 15 elementary school students from across the state are awarded $500 SMART529 scholarships for winning their regional age group. A grand prize winner receives an additional $4,500.

The photo form is a cutout with props depicting several occupations to encourage children to dream about what they want to be when they grow up.   

The “When I Grow Up” contest allows students, with the help of their parent or guardian, to submit, in 100 words or less, an essay that answers what they want to be when they grow up. Entries will be judged on originality, creativity and the importance of post-secondary education.

The deadline for the essay contest is February 24, 2017. Entry forms are available now online at www.SMART529.com. The contest is designed to draw attention to SMART529, West Virginia’s college savings plan.