First Lady Casey DeSantis’ Student & Educator Contests

2022-2023 Theme: “Celebrating the Achievements of Hispanic, Native American, and Black Floridians.”

For more information, please visit http://www.floridablackhistory.com/student-contests.html.

About the Student Art Contest

First Lady Casey DeSantis’ Art Contest is open to all K-3 students in the state of Florida. Each student will submit original, two-dimensional artwork based on this year’s theme.

Eligible Participants: Florida students in Kindergarten through 3^rd grade

Awards: Four statewide winners will be selected for each month and each winner will receive a $100 art supplies gift card and a 1-year pass to Florida state parks.

Submission Details: All contest entries for Black History Month must be received by 5 p.m. (ET)on Tuesday, February 7, 2023.

About the Student Essay Contest

First Lady Casey DeSantis’ Essay Contest is open to all students attending any Florida school in grades 4-12 (public, charter, private, home or virtual). Six winners will be selected: one elementary school student (grades 4-5), one middle school student (grades 6-8), and one high school student (grades 9-12).

Eligible Participants: Florida students in 4^th grade through 12^th grade

Awards: Six winners will be selected: two elementary school students (grades 4-5), two middle school students (grades 6-8) and two high school students (grades 9-12). Each winner will receive a 2-year Florida College Plan scholarship provided by the Florida Prepaid College Foundation.

Submission Details: All contest entries for Black History Month must be received by 5 p.m. (ET) on Tuesday, February 7, 2023.

About the Excellence in Education Award

First Lady Casey DeSantis’ Excellence in Education Award Contests aim to recognize educators who have made impacts on students, schools and/or communities. Nominations may be submitted by a principal, teacher, parent/guardian or student.

Eligible Participants: Full-time Florida educators in elementary, middle or high schools