Florida students are being invited to take part in the 2025 Native American Heritage Month art and essay contests, an initiative announced by the Florida Department of Education and Volunteer Florida. The theme for this year is “Celebrating Florida’s Native American Heritage.” The contests aim to recognize the contributions of Native Americans throughout the state’s history.
Commissioner of Education Anastasios Kamoutsas stated, “We are proud to offer students opportunities to learn from and honor the Native Americans who have shaped Florida’s story. 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 attending schools in Florida. Students in kindergarten through third grade can participate in an art contest by submitting one original two-dimensional artwork reflecting this year’s theme. Four winners will be chosen statewide, each receiving a $200 gift card for school supplies and a one-year pass to Florida State Parks.
For older students in grades four through twelve, there is an essay contest that requires participants to write up to 500 words about a Floridian Native American whose story should be shared due to their impactful effect on the state. Six winners will be selected—two each from 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 along with a $200 gift card for school supplies.
Students entering either contest must reside in Florida, attend a public, charter, private, home or virtual school within the state, and provide a Social Security Number.
Additionally, nominations are open for full-time educators across all grade levels for Governor Ron DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis’ Native American Heritage Month Excellence in Education Award Contest. Four educators will be recognized with each receiving $2,500 from Volunteer Florida. Nominations can be submitted by principals, teachers, parents or students.
Entries for both student contests as well as 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 eligibility requirements and submission guidelines is available at www.floridanativeamericanheritage.com.
