The Jewish Partisans Educational Foundation in San Francisco is sponsoring an essay contest this spring.

Students in 8th through 12th grades are eligible to submit a 300- to 500-word essay describing their reaction to the life lessons of the Jewish partisans — the men, women and children who joined organized, armed resistance groups during World War II.

Essays should also touch on one of three ideas: how young people can make a difference, why it’s important to stand up to oppression and prejudice, and why it is sometimes necessary to question authority.

Two first-place winners will win an iPod Touch loaded with JPEF short films and the movie “Defiance.” The educator whose student wins first place will also receive an iPod Touch. Second- and third-place winners will receive JPEF T-shirts and posters.

Essays are due May 10. Winners will be announced June 1.

Contact David Kaplan at (415) 563-2244 for information, or visit www.jewishpartisans.org/contest.

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