Students across Florida are being encouraged to participate in the 2025 Native American Heritage Month student art and essay contests, announced by the Florida Department of Education and Volunteer Florida. The theme for this year is “Celebrating Florida’s Native American Heritage.” Native American Heritage Month is observed nationwide each November.
“We are proud to offer students opportunities to learn from and honor the Native Americans who have shaped Florida’s story,” said Commissioner of Education Anastasios Kamoutsas. “I encourage every student to learn about our Native American history and discover the remarkable achievements they made.”
Volunteer Florida CEO Josie Tamayo added, “I am proud to celebrate the culture and heritage of Native Americans who enrich the value of our Nation. During Native American Heritage Month, we honor the many contributions of Native American Floridians.”
The contests are open to all students in Florida. Kindergarten through third-grade students can enter an art contest, while those in grades four through twelve can submit essays. In addition, nominations are open for full-time educators for the Native American Heritage Month Excellence in Education Award.
Art contest participants must submit original two-dimensional artwork based on this year’s theme. Four statewide winners will be chosen, each receiving a $200 gift card for school supplies and a one-year pass to Florida State Parks.
For the essay contest, six winners will be selected from three grade categories: elementary (grades 4-5), middle (grades 6-8), and high school (grades 9-12). Each winner will receive a two-year Florida College Plan scholarship provided by the Florida Prepaid College Foundation as well as a $200 gift card for school supplies.
Eligibility requires that contestants be residents of Florida, attend school within the state in grades 4-12—including public, charter, private, home or virtual schools—and provide a Social Security Number. Only one essay per student may be submitted; essays must be written in English and not exceed 500 words.
The essay topic asks students to write about a Floridian Native American whose impact should be recognized.
The Excellence in Education Award is open to all full-time educators at any elementary, middle or high school in Florida. Four winners will be selected based on nominations from principals, teachers, parents/guardians or students. Winners will receive $2,500 from Volunteer Florida.
All contest entries and educator nominations must be received by 5:00 pm Eastern Time on Friday, November 21, 2025. Submissions can be mailed or submitted online at www.floridanativeamericanheritage.com.
More information about participation requirements is available at www.floridanativeamericanheritage.com.
