TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Gov. Rick Scott, his wife Ann, and Lt. Gov. Jennifer Carroll on Friday invited students in kindergarten through 12th grades to participate in the Florida Black History Month art and essay contests.
They also invite students, parents, teachers and principals to nominate full-time African-American educators in elementary, middle or high schools for the Black History Month Excellence in Education Award.
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"The art and essay contests are a great chance for the children of Florida to express their creativity while learning about the African-American leaders who have enriched our state," Scott said.
The student contests focus on the theme "African-American pioneers who advanced science and technology," and information about the contests and Florida's Black History Month is available on Florida's Black History Month website, www.FloridaBlackHistory.com.
"During Black History month, we take time to recognize the many ways African-Americans have enriched Florida's communities, culture and history," Scott said. "The achievements of African-Americans touch every community, in every field of study, including science and technology."
"We are proud to recognize African-American individuals and their successes, which have made our state a leader in culture and diversity," Carroll added. "As Florida's first African-American lieutenant governor, I hope to continue expanding on Florida's already diverse environment."
About the Student Contests:
The Black History Month art contest is open to all Florida students in grades K-3, and two winners will be selected.
The Black History Month essay contest is open to all 4th through 12th grade students in Florida. Three winners will be selected: one elementary (4-5) student, one middle (6-8) student, and one high school (9-12) student. Winners will receive a 4-Year Florida College Plan scholarship provided by the Florida Prepaid College Foundation.
About the Excellence in Education Award:
Scott's annual Black History Month Excellence in Education Award Contest is open to all African-American, full time educators in an elementary, middle or high school in Florida. Three winners will be selected: one elementary (K-5) teacher, one middle school (6-8) teacher and one high school (9-12) teacher. Winners will receive a check for $1500.
Contest Entries and Nominations:
Student Contests and Educator Nomination forms must be mailed to:
Florida's Foundation, Attention: Black History Month, 820 East Park Avenue, E-100, Tallahassee, FL 32301
All entries must be received by the Foundation no later than 5:00 p.m. EST, January 20, 2012.
For additional information about Florida's black history, contests and other related events, please visit FloridaBlackHistory.com.