The Florida Department of Education and Volunteer Florida have announced the America250FL art and essay contests in recognition of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States. The contests are open to all Florida students from kindergarten through twelfth grade, offering them a chance to reflect on the nation’s history and highlight Florida’s role in shaping America.
Students are invited to submit original artwork or essays centered on the theme “Celebrating Florida’s Contributions to America.” The deadline for submissions is Monday, March 16, 2026. Entries can be mailed to Volunteer Florida or submitted online at America250FloridaContest.com.
Commissioner of Education Anastasios Kamoutsas stated, “As America approaches its 250th anniversary, the America250FL contest offers students a meaningful opportunity to explore how Florida has helped shape and strengthen our nation. As a national leader in education, I am proud of what we have accomplished and look forward to reading and seeing the outstanding work students will submit.”
Secretary of State Cord Byrd added, “The Spirit of ‘76 is alive and well in Florida. As Chair of the America250FL Commission, I encourage all students to reflect on Florida’s history and heritage by participating in the art and essay contests.”
Josie Tamayo, CEO of Volunteer Florida, said, “America’s 250th anniversary is a powerful opportunity to inspire the next generation to reflect on our shared history and imagine how they can help shape our future. Through the America250FL essay and art contests, students are encouraged to celebrate Florida’s contributions to our nation and continue that story through service and civic engagement.”
The art contest is available for students in kindergarten through fifth grade. Participants must create an original two-dimensional artwork based on this year’s theme. Six winners will be chosen; each will receive a two-year Florida College Plan scholarship provided by the Florida Prepaid College Foundation.
For students in grades six through twelve, the essay contest offers eight awards: three middle school winners (grades 6-8) will each receive a two-year college plan scholarship; five high school winners (grades 9-12) will each be awarded a four-year college plan scholarship.
To participate, contestants must be residents of Florida with a valid Social Security number. Each student may submit only one entry.
All entries must arrive by 5 p.m. Eastern Time on March 16, 2026.
