8th to 12th Graders Can Apply for the 2026 City of Half Moon Bay Student Leadership and Sustainability Awards; Deadline April 30th

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ENEWS. From the City of Half Moon Bay on April 16th, 2026. APPLY!

The City of Half Moon Bay is proud to support local students through its annual Student Awards Program. The application deadline is Thursday, April 30.

Each year the City provides the opportunity for Half Moon Bay students to apply for two scholarship opportunities. The Leadership Awards for Students, recognizing outstanding achievements and leadership qualities of middle school and high school students who have distinguished themselves as role models among their peers, and the Sustainability Awards, where students are invited to write an essay answering a prompt related to sustainability. 

The Leadership Awards include five awards recognizing middle and high school students who demonstrate strong leadership, positive character, and a commitment to serving as role models within their school or community.

The City of Half Moon Bay’s Annual Leadership Award program recognizes outstanding achievements and leadership qualities of middle school and high school students who have distinguished themselves as role models among their peers. Areas such as work ethic, community service, leadership, social responsibility, and/or overcoming obstacles to accomplish goals are considered.

Awards

• 8th through 10th Grade – $100
• 11th Grade $200
• 12th Grade $1,000

Essay Prompt
“Describe your involvement in leadership activities and explain how these efforts have made a positive impact on your school, or community. Explain how you have motivated and inspired others.” 

Eligibility Requirements

• Must be a student in good standing enrolled in middle school or high school in Half Moon Bay
• Must have good attendance and academic record
• Must have volunteered in the community
• Must illustrate leadership skills or exemplary social responsibility
• May have overcome adversity or serve as a role model to others

The Sustainability Awards include two awards and invite students to share their ideas by responding to a sustainability-focused essay prompt.

The City of Half Moon Bay, in partnership with Republic Services, is excited to announce another year of scholarships. This year, we will be giving out two (2) scholarships of $500.00. Submit an essay in response to this year’s prompt for a chance to win!

Essay Prompt
“Food waste is a growing environmental challenge. How can reducing food waste in Half Moon Bay benefit our environment and community, and what role can young people play in making this change?”

Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must be a high school student (9^th – 12^th grade) either enrolled at Half Moon Bay High School, Pilarcitos High School, OR a resident of the City of Half Moon Bay. Proof of enrollment or residency may be required.

Details on eligibility, requirements, and how to apply are available on the City’s website.

Submission Requirements
One submission per student. Applicants must submit an essay (500 words max) in response to this year’s essay prompt along with a completed application. Incomplete submissions may not be considered. The top two essays for each prompt will be selected. Essays found to be plagiarized or written by AI may not be accepted.

Submission Deadline and Guidelines
In order to submit an application, please fill out the form below or pick up a Student Award packet in-person at City Hall, 501 Main Street. Once packets are completed they can be hand delivered at City Hall, 501 Main Street from 8:30am – 5pm, Monday-Thursday. 

There will be two prompts, one is for the Leadership Award Program and one is for the Sustainability Award Program. If you meet the eligibility requirements for both, you can submit applications for both. You can apply for one or both programs, please remember to check the box below indicating which one you are applying for. 

All applications must be received by Wednesday, April 30 at 5:00pm. Postmarks do not qualify.
Please note submitted essays may be shared by the City of Half Moon Bay or their partners on websites, social media, etc.

For questions about the Student Awards Program, please email studentawards@halfmoonbay.gov.