Three students from throughout the state will receive a $1,000 scholarship from the New Jersey League of Municipalities and Butler, Kinnelon and Bloomingdale students will be have a chance now as well.

Bloomingdale Mayor Jonathan Dunleavy, a member of the League, said he will be reaching out to the Butler and Bloomingdale school districts to explain the scholarship program, the Louis Bay 2nd Future Municipal Leaders Scholarship Competition. Through the competition, students are required to write essays about what their mayors and elected officials "do best."

"These elected officials and appointed board members serve Bloomingdale and Butler. It is their altruistic desire to serve their community which compels them to public service," Dunleavy said. "These officials, along with a cadre of dedicated professionals, are guardians of our hometown comforts and security. They give of their time and talents to help plan our community and preserve our way of life."

The purpose of the scholarship program is for students to recognize the volunteerism of elected officials and for the officials to be noticed for their efforts.

Essays need to be about 500 words and submitted to Dunleavy by March 8.