Last night, the winners of Florida’s Black History Month educator and student art and essay contests were announced at a reception held at the Governor’s Mansion. The annual contests, themed “Celebrating Black History,” are organized through collaboration between the Florida Department of Education, Volunteer Florida, the Florida Lottery, and the Florida Prepaid College Foundation.
“Florida students once again amazed me with the quality of their art and essay submissions and the educators showed their commitment and dedication to their students,” said Commissioner of Education Anastasios Kamoutsas. “I am pleased that so many took this opportunity to learn about Black history and send my congratulations to the winners.”
“We are incredibly proud to recognize these outstanding students and educators whose creativity and dedication bring the stories of Black history to life in meaningful ways,” said CEO of Volunteer Florida, Josie Tamayo. “Their work not only honors the past, but also inspires a spirit of service, leadership, and unity that will shape Florida’s future for generations to come.”
The student art contest was open to kindergarten through third grade students. Four winners were selected: Isobel DeGroot (Kindergarten, St. Andrew’s Academy, Indian River County), Kiera Pero (Grade 1, Waters Edge Elementary, Palm Beach County), Allison Garcia (Grade 2, Kendale Elementary, Miami-Dade County), and Madison Cruess (Grade 3, Westside School, Osceola County). Each received a $200 gift card for school supplies and a one-year pass to state parks.
For the student essay contest—open to grades four through twelve—six winners were chosen: Elizabeth Grim (Grade 4), Adriana Watkins (Grade 5), Saije Wade Cody (Grade 6), Rohanna Johnson (Grade 7), Tevay Berry (Grade 9), and Ah-Jnea Ottley (Grade 12). Winners received a two-year Florida College Plan scholarship from the Florida Prepaid College Foundation as well as a $200 gift card for school supplies.
Four educators received Excellence in Education Awards based on nominations from principals, teachers, parents or guardians, and students. Recipients Omega Mothersill (Auburndale High School), Brittany Rudolph-Montgomery (The Villages Charter School), Yanetta Smith (Pedro Menendez High School), and Francis Thomas (Renaissance Charter School at Chickasaw Trail) each received $2,500 provided by Volunteer Florida.
The Florida Department of Education operates from its headquarters in Tallahassee. It oversees education across all levels in Florida—from early childhood through higher learning—and works with parents, educators, and communities to improve student achievement for diverse groups. The department administers programs supporting K-12 schools as well as higher education initiatives.
Support is offered through academic resources such as school choice options and professional training for both educators and students. Its efforts aim to promote reading proficiency and career development opportunities throughout the state.
For more information about ongoing educational programs or upcoming contests coordinated by the department or its partners like Volunteer Florida or the Florida Prepaid College Foundation, visit their respective websites.
