Anastasios Kamoutsas, Commissioner at Florida Department Of Education | Florida Department Of Education
Students across Florida are being invited to take part in the 2025 Native American Heritage Month art and essay contests, organized 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.
Commissioner of Education Anastasios Kamoutsas said, “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 in the state. Students in grades K-3 can participate in an art contest by submitting original two-dimensional artwork based on this year’s theme. Four statewide winners will be selected, each receiving a $200 gift card for school supplies and a one-year pass to Florida State Parks.
For students in grades 4-12, there is an essay contest. Six winners will be chosen: two from elementary schools (grades 4-5), two from middle schools (grades 6-8), and two from high schools (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.
To participate in the essay contest, students must be residents of Florida, attend school within the state (including public, charter, private, home or virtual schools), and provide a Social Security Number. Only one essay per student is allowed; essays must be written in English and not exceed 500 words. The subject should focus on a Floridian Native American who has had an impactful effect on the state’s history.
In addition to student contests, Governor Ron DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis’ Native American Heritage Month Excellence in Education Award Contest invites nominations for full-time educators working at any level from elementary through high school. Four educators will be recognized with $2,500 awards from Volunteer Florida. Nominations may come from principals, teachers, parents or guardians, or students.
Entries for all contests must be submitted online at www.floridanativeamericanheritage.com or mailed to Volunteer Florida at their Tallahassee address by 5:00 pm Eastern Time on Friday, November 21, 2025.
More information about participation guidelines can be found at www.floridanativeamericanheritage.com.
Alerts Sign-up