Mayor Todd Gloria announced today the opening of the fourth annual “Mayor for a Day” contest, inviting San Diego Unified School District students in grades K-12 across to submit essays or videos about what they would do if they were the City’s mayor for a day. This initiative seeks to foster a passion for leadership and civic engagement among San Diego’s youth.

“Our young people bring fresh perspectives and bold ideas, and this contest is a chance to see San Diego through their eyes,” Mayor Todd Gloria said. “This experience also gives students a brief glimpse at public service and an opportunity to consider how they would shape their city to take care of the needs of residents.”

Participating students can share their vision in an essay or a video submission that showcases what they would prioritize as Mayor. The winner will have the unique opportunity to shadow Mayor Gloria for a day, experience the inner workings of City Hall, and join the Mayor at the 2025 State of the City address in January.

The “Mayor for a Day” contest is particularly meaningful for Mayor Gloria, who, at age 10, he was runner-up in a similar "Mayor for a Day" contest. Thirty-two years later, he was sworn in as San Diego’s 37th Mayor. After successful competitions during his first term, Mayor Gloria is excited to host his fourth annual Mayor for a Day contest. 

Entries are due by Nov. 29. Additional details, including submission guidelines and selection criteria, are available at www.sandiego.gov/mayorforaday.