What do you get a country turning 250 years old?
It’s not a question we ask often — or even every generation. But as the United States approaches its semiquincentennial in 2026, the milestone invites us to reflect on where we’ve been, who we are and where we’re headed.
Here in Orange County, we have a pretty good idea for a gift: We’re inviting young people to help write our nation’s soundtrack.
Marking the occasion with a celebration of student voice, the USA 250-OC Theme Song Competition: Celebrating America’s 250th Anniversary Through Song is encouraging high school students in grades 9 through 12 to compose original music that honors the founding of our country and the enduring principles that continue to shape our democracy.
Co-hosted by OC Music & Dance, USA 250 Orange County and the Orange County Department of Education, the contest encourages students to reflect creatively on themes of freedom, unity, perseverance and hope. Each song must be no longer than 250 seconds — that’s 4 minutes and 10 seconds — and fall into one of eight genres: pop/adult contemporary, rock, hip-hop/rap, country, jazz, R&B/soul, folk or classical.
Top entries in each genre will receive a cash prize and the opportunity to perform live at a countywide Fourth of July celebration in 2026. Students may submit individually or in teams of up to three, and winners will also have the chance to copyright their work.
Submissions are due by Nov. 30, and full contest details are available at link.ocde.us/usa-250-oc.
The contest was introduced earlier this month during a free songwriting workshop hosted by OC Music & Dance and Fender, where student musicians gathered to learn from professionals and collaborate with their peers. It was a powerful reminder of the creativity that lives in our classrooms — and how music continues to inspire connection, storytelling and purpose.
As county superintendent, I’m incredibly proud of the student artists in our schools — and grateful to the educators, mentors and families who nurture their creativity. This competition is more than a celebration of music. It’s an invitation to reflect, to express, and to help shape the story of our country through the power of song.
Because maybe, just maybe, what you get a country turning 250 is a generation of young people who are ready and inspired to sing its next verse.