Young aspiring writers could be giving the mayor a run for his money.

Adam Hewitt, math and reading instructor for Midland Kumon Centre, is relaunching the centre’s short story contest. It will run until June 30.

Midland Mayor James Downer will judge stories, which must start with “If I was the Mayor of Midland, I would...”

“I’m hoping (the contest) will spark a child’s mind,” Hewitt tells The Mirror. “I want it to get them to think about things in a whole new way than they have before with how the town operates.”

The aim of the contest, adds Hewitt, is to promote literacy in the community, as well as to provide students an opportunity to think differently about their community while giving them an outlet for their thoughts and concerns about the town they live in. Plus, it will be a great opportunity to give members of council a child’s eye view of what the future should look like, and shedding some light on some concerns not normally voiced.

“It promotes critical and analytical thinking, both of which are core skills necessary to succeed in school.”

Downer says he is excited about his judging duties.

“I think it’s important for someone (to take part in a contest like this) because it helps to give them self-confidence, and it teaches them that they can learn something from what they write,” he says.”

The story must be 250 words or less and is open to any student currently enrolled in a Midland elementary school.

The winner, which will be announced in July, will receive two great prizes, including a three month Kumon Scholarship from the Midland Kumon Math & Reading Centre, and a $50 gift certificate to Minds Alive! Toy Store.

All entries must be submitted to the Kumon Centre no later than 6 p.m. on Monday, June 30 to qualify and all stories must have the students name, age, grade, school, and phone number written on the cover page.

To learn more about the contest, story, or dropoff times, call 527-6284.