Each year, the City participates in the statewide “If I Were Mayor...” essay contest, sponsored by the Maryland Municipal League (MML), in partnership with the Maryland Mayors Association. This contest offers fourth grade students an opportunity to explore how local government works and to express their leadership ideas through writing.

When the contest period opens (typically in January), the official MML essay entry form, along with deadlines and submission instructions, will be posted in the Documents section of this webpage.

Gaithersburg takes the program a step further by selecting a City-specific Junior Mayor from among the local submissions. Essays submitted by City residents are reviewed by City staff and volunteers. Finalists are invited to participate in a panel interview.

Note: Junior Mayor candidates must be residents of the City of Gaithersburg. Families may use our Address and Parcel Map to verify eligibility.

The winning essay is shared on the City’s website, and the Junior Mayor reads their essay at a Mayor & Council Meeting. Throughout the year, the Junior Mayor participates in a variety of City events, including:

• Gaithersburg Book Festival
• Memorial & Veterans Day Observances
• SummerFest
• Labor Day Parade
• Jingle Jubilee
• St. Patrick’s Day Parade
• And additional civic and community activities

Junior Mayors are also invited to initiate a community service project, collaborating with classmates, their community, elected officials, and City staff.