Iowans to choose new education license plate design from student art

The Iowa Department of Education has opened voting for the new state education license plate design. The new designs were developed through a unique competition, involving original artworks from 16 student semifinalists from across Iowa. These designs are set to replace the existing ones that have been in use for several decades.

"Earlier this school year, the Department asked students to help us reimagine Iowa’s education license plate, and now it's time for you to pick your favorite submissions," stated Iowa Department of Education Director McKenzie Snow. "This first-of-its-kind design challenge is helping us celebrate education across Iowa while recognizing the incredible artistic talent of our students."

A panel which consisted of art teachers from different parts of the state, selected the 16 semifinalist artworks from over 100 entries submitted by K-12 art students. Creativity, originality, artistic skill, and representation of Iowa education were the key criteria for evaluation. Iowans can vote online for their top three designs in four grade bands: 3-5, 6-8, 9-10, and 11-12, and then select their overall favorite designs.

Following public voting, three or four finalists will emerge for the final consideration. The winner is expected to be announced by the end of the school year, with the new design potentially going into production in the summer. The current design, which has been used since 1997, will be replaced. All artworks from both semifinalists and finalists will be displayed permanently at the Department of Education's location in Grimes State Office Building.

The Iowa Education License Plate Contest began in the previous fall, encouraging K-12 students to contribute new designs aimed at being featured on vehicles of motorists supporting education. K-12 teachers were allowed to submit up to 10 student designs.

Specialized education license plates serve as a means for Iowa motorists to display their support for education. These plates are available through the Iowa Department of Transportation, with the proceeds assisting districts with the highest transportation costs per pupil, benefiting especially rural communities.

Voting remains open until April 15, and forms can be accessed via the Iowa Department of Education's website. For further details, individuals are directed to visit the Iowa Education License Plate Contest webpage.