Students explore their creativity through art and essays in Florida's Black History Month contests.
The Florida Department of Education and Volunteer Florida are hosting contests for students during Black History Month, encouraging creativity through art and essays. Students can win cash prizes, scholarships, and recognition for their contributions that honor African-American history in the state. These contests emphasize the importance of creativity and education in celebrating Black history while offering exciting opportunities and rewards for young Floridians.
The beautiful Sunshine State is buzzing with excitement this February, as the Florida Department of Education, along with Volunteer Florida, is rolling out exciting contests for students in celebration of Black History Month. This year, the theme is all about “Honoring African-American Contributions to Florida’s Success,” so get those creative juices flowing!
Little artists in grades K-3 are invited to showcase their artistic talents in a fabulous art contest. The only requirement? Original, two-dimensional artwork that captures the spirit of African-American contributions in Florida. Four lucky winners will be chosen, each snagging a $100 gift card to stock up on school supplies and, get this, a year-long pass to Florida State Parks! Can you imagine spending the weekends exploring the natural beauty of the Sunshine State?
Students from grades 4-12 are also in for a treat with the essay contest! This contest gives a chance to dive deeper into the remarkable stories of African-American Floridians who played critical roles in the state’s success. Participants must be residents of Florida and currently enrolled in any school within the state, be it public, charter, private, home, or virtual. A valid Social Security Number is a must as well.
Remember, each student can submit only one essay in English, and it shouldn’t be over 500 words. Looking for inspiration? Think of giant figures like Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune, the legendary Ray Charles, or the trailblazing Rep. Kiyan Michael. There is certainly no shortage of incredible stories to tell!
Six essay winners will have the honor of being recognized: two from elementary school (grades four and five), two from middle school (grades six to eight), and two from high school (grades nine to twelve). Each of these winners will be looking at a two-year Florida College Plan scholarship from the Florida Prepaid College Foundation and a cool $100 gift card for school supplies. Who wouldn’t want that?
In addition to recognizing student talent, the contests also offer a wonderful opportunity to appreciate inspiring educators through the “Black History Month Excellence in Education Award.” Students, parents, teachers, or even principals can nominate outstanding educators. The few selected will receive $2,500 each from Volunteer Florida to continue their fantastic work.
For all students and teachers looking to get involved, make sure to send in those contest forms and nomination forms by mail or online no later than 5 p.m. (ET) on Monday, February 3. Want to know where to send those submissions? Here you go:
Volunteer Florida Black History Month Committee 1545 Raymond Diehl Rd., Suite 250 Tallahassee, FL 32308
So whether you’re setting up a canvas for the art contest or penning an inspiring essay, Florida’s Black History Month contests are a fantastic way to channel creativity while honoring the impactful stories of African Americans in the state. To find out more about the contests and how to submit your entries, be sure to visit www.floridablackhistory.com.
Let’s make this year’s Black History Month unforgettable with creativity, recognition, and a celebration of the rich history of African-American contributions to Florida!
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