Embedded Files
Celebrating Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month 2025:
We will honor awards to the 1st, the 2nd, the 3rd place winners and honorable mentions in the lower elementary, upper elementary, middle, and high school categories:
We will honor awards to the 1st, the 2nd, the 3rd place winners and honorable mentions in the lower elementary, upper elementary, middle, and high school categories:
Lower Elementary Schools (PreK-2)
Lower Elementary Schools (PreK-2)
1st Place: D. C., Bannockburn ES
Title: Wong Kim Ark
Description: I drew a picture of Wong Kim Ark in front of the Supreme Court with the flower, bushes, grass and the blue sky. I also included an American flag and the 14th Amendment.
2nd Place: E. Y., Bells Mill ES
Title: Anna May Wong
Description: This sketch is about Anna May Wong who is considered the first Chinese American actress and star in Hollywood and gain international recognition. She is a true leader and legacy in the Asian American history because she worked hard and was successful in her acting career; she struggled but was resilient against discrimination in the movie industry and she loved and bridged the two worlds of her Chinese heritage and American upbringing.
3rd Place: B. B., Brookhaven ES
Title: The dragon
Description: Bruce Lee is an admirable actor like an Asian dragon rises in America even the whole world. His spirit and philosophy lives forever.
Honorable Mention: J. L., Farmland ES
Title: Olympic snow fairy
Description: Eileen Gu, an Asian-American girl born in California, is the youngest Olympic champion in freestyle skiing at the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing.
Upper Elementary Schools (3-5)
Upper Elementary Schools (3-5)
1st Place: E. S., Bells Mill ES
Title: Electrocharged
Description: Peter Tsai is a Taiwanese-American who invented the electro-charged fiber that makes up the N95. The mask can block micro-particles, trap viruses and bacteria and is used by construction workers, first responders, medical professionals, and at-risk people around the world.
2nd Place: A. N., Potomac ES
Title: Kimmy Duong: A Lifetime of Leadership and Giving Back
Description: I wanted to celebrate Mrs. Kimmy Duong and her husband, Dr. Long Nguyen, with my artwork. I drew Mrs. Duong in front of the building they donated to Montgomery College. Mrs. Duong and Dr. Nguyen's generous donation allowed the college to build a student services building on the Rockville campus. Mrs. Duong and Dr. Nguyen have shown a lifetime of leadership and giving back to the community. They are an inspiration to us all.
3rd Place: S. S., Snowden Farm ES
Title: Shoot for the Stars - Sunita Williams
Description: Sunita Williams is an Indian American Astronaut. She is the pride of South Asians and an inspiration for aspiring young girls in STEM field. My artwork is a collage about Sunita Williams’s life, space exploration and her accomplishments.
Honorable Mention: O. H., Bells Mill ES
Title: Sunisa Lee Gymnast
Description: My artwork shows Sunisa Lee the gymnast. She is an Asian American gymnast and she is one of my favorite gymnasts. Suni Lee is the first Asian American to win the all-around gold medal in women's gymnastics. I want to be the next Sunisa Lee.
Middle Schools (6-8)
Middle Schools (6-8)
1st Place: A. H., Robert Frost MS
Title: Patsy T. Mink - Author of Title IX
Description: Patsy Mink was a politician from Hawaii who served in Congress for 24 years. She was the first Asian-American woman elected to Congress, known for her work on women's rights and education legislation. She is know for writing Title IX and the Women's Educational Equity Act.
2nd Place: X. Q., Tilden MS
Title: Australian Open Badminton Winner, Beiwen Zhang
Description: Australian Open Badminton Women’s Singles Winner, Beiwen Zhang. Born in China, moved to Singapore in 2003 and moved to America and currently has an American citizenship. She represents the USA and is currently top 10 in international women’s singles.
3rd Place: M. Z., Herbert Hoover MS
Title: Yo-yo Ma
Description: For Yo-yo-Ma’s extraordinary musical talent, versatility and global outreach that inspired so many Asian young artists.
Honorable Mention: A. G., Herbert Hoover MS
Title: Midori Goto
Description: Midori Goto is a Japanese-born American violinist. She debuted at age 11 with the New York Philharmonic and is now a prominent violinist. Midori has worked as a professor in music.
High Schools (9-12)
High Schools (9-12)
Honorable Mention: O. G., Colonel Zadok Magruder HS
Title: Dream Influencers of Our Era
Description: This artwork indicates three famous Asian American people that gives hope to people and make them dream. The artwork involves the famous actor/wrestler Dwayne Douglas Johnson, the famous singer-songwriter Bruno Mars, and the first Indian woman to go to space, Kalpana Chawla.
Judge Biographies:
Judge Biographies:
is currently in his tenth year as an elementary art teacher with Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS). He graduated from the University of Maryland, College Park with a Bachelor of Arts in studio art with a focus on graphic design, and a Master of Education in art education. Geoffrey has worked as a graphic designer in a variety of settings, including at the Smithsonian National Museum of Asian Art with the Imaginasia Family Program, the League of Educators for Asian American Progress, and the DC Chapter of the Japanese American Citizens League. He enjoys a variety of creative outlets including printmaking, pumpkin carving, and model building. He lives in Maryland with his wife and corgi.
BING-JIB HUANG, member of Sumi-e Society of America, Harmonious Art Club, and Lantin Chinese Calligraphy Club
Mr. Bing-Jib Huang (aka. BJ) was born in Taiwan and moved to the U.S. over 50 years ago. He earned an MS in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Maryland and recently retired after 33 years with the Federal Aviation Administration. Passionate about Chinese calligraphy since childhood, BJ has developed a unique style, incorporating symbols and colors to enhance the meaning of Chinese characters. He particularly enjoys designing greeting cards for the Lunar New Year. His modern calligraphy appeals especially to those familiar with the Chinese language.
Mr. Huang is an active member of Sumi-e Society of America, the Harmonious Art Club, and the Lantin (蘭亭) Chinese Calligraphy Club. He served as President of the International Artists Support Group in 2002 and teaches calligraphy at Rockville Chinese School. He frequently gives demonstrations, especially during Lunar New Year celebrations. His artwork has been exhibited internationally, including in Beijing, St. Petersburg, and Cairo. He also participated in the Florence Biennale (2007) and London Art Biennale (2013), where he won an award.
Hello, my name is Ms. Joan Rhee. I grew up in MCPS; and graduated from the University of Maryland, where I studied art education.
I will be teaching two sections of level 1 Foundations of Art and Culture, two sections of level 1 Ceramics, and one section of Functional Arts and Crafts. My hobbies include origami, painting, drawing, and listening to music.
Other artworks by participant names in the elementary, middle and high school categories:
Other artworks by participant names in the elementary, middle and high school categories:
B. L., Lakewood ES
Title: Vera Wang
Description: It is about Vera Wang wearing her own wedding dress. Every girl is dreaming about wearing Vera Wang's wedding dresses for their wedding ceremony.
J. R., Cold Spring ES
Title: Mulane
Description: This is a character from a movie called Mulan.She is a brave, fearless and beautiful Asian girl, who can be a warrior as other boys.
L. T., Glenallan ES
Title: Holding Up a Bridge for Others
Description: Asian Americans always help each other. Being a good leader means you won't let anyone fall.
D. V., Cabin Branch ES
Title: Mahatma Gandhi
Description: I drew Gandhi in white simple clothes that he always wore. I also drew a spinning wheel because he used it to make his own clothes. I wrote his famous quote at the bottom of my picture.
B. W., Cloverly ES
Title: Bora Bora
Description: Island, boat, palm tree
A. Y., Great Seneca Creek ES
Title: Famous actress
Description: She is a famous Asian Actress
S. Z., Wayside ES
Title: Fearless Flight of Eileen Gu
Description: This drawing captures Olympic champion Eileen Gu soaring down the slopes with energy and grace in 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing.
H. Z., College Gardens ES
Title: Kamala Harris
Description: It's a portrait of Former Vice President Kamala Harris
M. C., Bannockburn ES
Title: Yo-Yo Ma: Music Bringing the World Together
Description: I drew a picture of Yo-Yo Ma playing his cello, Petunia. I was inspired by the book "Playing at the Border" which shows Yo-Yo playing the cello at the US-Mexico border and bringing everyone together. I hope you enjoy this. I drew the picture, and I created the background and text on the Procreate app.
A. E., Bayard Rustin ES
Title: American Dream
Description: I am a proud granddaughter of Honorable Chung Ki Pak who defeated all odds to becoming the first Korean American Chief Administrative Judge for the State of Maryland. He immigrated from South Korea at a young age to a small town in Alabama where he overcame obstacles including racism and poverty to attending Auburn University and eventually law school in Washington, DC. In addition to his pursuit of higher education and career ambitions, he advocated for Asian Americans by involving himself in political campaigns and helping elect Asian American politicians including Secretary State Susan C. Lee so that Asian Americans have a voice and power in our community. My grandpa Honorable Pak represents the American dream both in and out of the courtroom.
S. G., Bannockburn ES
Title: Indian American strong women
Description: Two powerful women who made America better but are Indian. one was vice president and the other is an actress. both strong women who accomplished a lot.
A. G., Spark M. Matsunaga ES
Title: Lucy Liu
Description: This is a portrait of Lucy Liu. She is an award-winning actress, and is the second Asian-American actress to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Lucy Liu successfully played many Asian characters, different from the old impression of Asian that American people might have. She remodeled Asian people to be strong, diverse, smart, and interesting.
A. G., Fields Road ES
Title: Cindy Yen
Description: A famous Chinese singer who my mom loves
E. H., Fallsmead ES
Title: Michelle Yeoh
Description: Michelle Yeoh is a Malaysian actress famous for her roles in movies, she became a Hong-Kong based actress, starring in many action films. Yeoh won the Academy Award for Best Actress for her role in "Everything Everywhere All at Once," becoming the first Asian actress to do so.
E. H., Fallsmead ES
Title: 2022 Olympics Star Eileen Gu
Description: Eileen Gu is a Chinese-American freestyle skier. She is a Olympic medalist, representing China in the Winter Olympics. She is also a model, known for her appearances in fashion magazines and runway shows.
B. H., Seven Locks ES
Title: Lucy Liu: A Star of Strength
Description: My artwork shows Lucy Liu in a movie scene, and behind her is a traditional Chinese painting. I wanted to show how modern Asian American stars like Lucy Liu are connected to their cultural roots. The background is inspired by paintings on xuan paper, with mountains, rocks, trees, water, and soft ink brushwork. This picture celebrates both her talent and the beauty of Chinese heritage.
L. H., Cold Spring ES
Title: Giving Inspiration to the Future
Description: Nora Lum otherwise known as Awkwafina is a well accomplished actress and rapper. At only 36, she represents more than just her work; representing Asians and Pacific Islanders. This artwork encompasses her drive and mature nature and hopes to inspire others to act out of their comfort zone and follow her example.
M. J., Cold Spring ES
Title: My Hero, Son-sational, Heung-Min
Description: My drawing depicts Son Heung-Min celebrating on the field. He is expressing joy after making a play he's proud of during the match, gesturing toward the crowd in excitement.
C. L., Cabin Branch ES
Title: Mulan
Description: Mulan is famous Chinese hero that she took her aged father's place in the army. Many believe Mulan is a fictional character, possibly inspired by women in freedom from this history.
Y. L., Cold Spring ES
Title: Kim Yuna
Description: Kim Yuna is the first Korean figure skater to win a gold medal in the Olympics. On the left of the artwork, it shows her graceful skating and figure, while on the right it shows Yuna proudly standing after winning gold at the 2010 Vancouver Olympics. This shows that even when others couldn't do it, believe in yourself and you can.
L. L., Lakewood ES
Title: Yuja Wang
Description: My artwork is about Yuja Wang. It shows her playing on a piano that is green. It also shows her dressed in very fancy clothing. She is playing with her piano music book open.
R. L., Fields Road ES
Title: Celebrating Asian Culture
Description: This drawing is about an Asian culture festival with food and dancing. They sold boba and tanghulu (Chinese candied fruit on a stick). There was Asian music and everyone danced.
I. O., Bannockburn ES
Title: Proud of Being Asian American
Description: My artwork pictures an Asian American man in a denim jacket. In the background is the American Flag.
E. P., Bayard Rustin ES
Title: Tech Gaint
Description: It is a picture of Jensen Huang with with his well known cameo that consist of his black glasses and leather jacket.
J. S., Cedar Grove ES
Title: Yu the Great
Description: Yu the Great , who worked hard day and night without a break for years, walked on his feet all over the land to find out a solution for taming the flood.Instead of building dams and dikes Yu work on guide the water away from populated areas into the ocean, ultimately bringing the floods under control that plagued ancient China ,The land he walked through formed China's initial territory in Geography and Yu became the Emperor of China as well.
M. W., Bannockburn ES
Title: Culture and Memorials
Description: Maya Lin exploring her Chinese culture with her Vietnam veterans memorial right besides her
L. W., Cloverly ES
Title: Pacific Island
Description: A mountain rising above the Pacific with a canoe resting on the water’s edge and a vibrant tropical flower symbolizing the beauty of the Island’s culture.
C. W., Beverly Farms ES
Title: Dream Big Like Eileen Gu
Description: This artwork shows Olympic skier Eileen Gu proudly holding her gold medal. I chose to draw her because she inspires me to work hard and never give up. The snowy mountains in the background remind us of where she competes and how far dreams can take you. I want others to feel motivated to follow their own dreams, just like she did.l, who can be a warrior as other boys.
S. Y., Bannockburn ES
Title: My Maya Lin
Description: Maya Lin is super cool because she designed the Vietnam Veterans Memorial when she was only 21! She makes awesome art and buildings that help people remember big moments in history. I think it’s amazing how someone so young made something so powerful.
J. H., Cabin John MS
Title: Cultural Korean Dishes
Description: My artwork shows different people eating traditional Korean dishes such as Bibimbap and Kimbap. A very popular Korean dish most people enjoy is Korean Barbecue. Traditional dishes can change how people see a country and how they think of it.
J. L., Cabin John MS
Title: Celebrating Asian Heritage
Description: This artwork shows how asian heritage is integrated into US. It shows how much asia heritage made an impact into our day to day lives.
L. N., Robert Frost MS
Title: Suni Lee Olympic Gold Medalist Gymnast
Description: Sunisa Lee is a successful, young Asian woman. She is a two time overall Olympic medalist and a deserving champion.
M. Z., Kingsview MS
Title: Split Between Two Worlds
Description: My artwork is based off of myself. A girl born in the United States to Chinese parents, I always wondered where I belonged. However, as I began learning more things about myself, I realized I could be a part of both cultures.
The month of May is designated by law as Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month to commemorate the history of AAPIs since their arrival in the United States in the mid-1800s, their challenges, and their contributions to American society.
All K-12 Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) students are invited to submit artwork for a poster that reflects significant people, places, or moments in AAPI history and/or culture. The entries will be judged by community art and art performance professionals.
First place ($120), second place ($80), third place ($60), and honorable mention winners were selected for each of the lower elementary school (PreK-2), higher elementary school (3-5), middle school (6-8), and high school (9-12) categories.
2025 MCPS K-12 Student Poster Art Contest - AAPI Heritage Month.pdfRules
Rules
Who can submit: Applicants currently enrolled in Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) for the 2024-2025 school year. Only one entry per student is allowed.
What to submit: Original artwork that illustrates a legacy of leadership and resilience in Asian American and Pacific Islander history and/or culture. Artwork must be drawings, paintings, or digital art and needs to be submitted electronically.
Submission: Online application at http://tiny.cc/MCPSArtContest2025 by Saturday May 10, 2025 (new date)
FAQ
FAQ
Q: What forms can be used to create the art?
A: Students may use drawings, paintings, ink stamps, etc. or a combination. No clip arts or computer generated images. The art does need to be two-dimensional. Artwork should be in a .png file less than 10 MB. Save your artwork using the following file name and type: {student’s last name}_{first name}_{school name}.png; example: Last_First_MCHS.png
Q: Does the art have to be in portrait or landscape format?
A: The art can be in either portrait or landscape format.
Q: Where does the applicant send the submission?
A: Submission should be done on https://bit.ly/MCPSArtContest2025.
Q: May the student write a poem, essay or narrative?
A: Students will be judged primarily on the visual art that captures the AAPI experiences, places and people in America; they may use written words to enhance the visual art.
Q: Can the student sign the artwork?
A: No. To ensure that the judges will not see the students’ names, please only identify the student on the accompanying application and consent & release forms. After the contest, the winners and applicants will be identified alongside their work.
Q: Who are the judges?
A: The judges are artists, art educators and performing art professionals from the local community.
Content Theme
Content Theme
A Legacy of Leadership and Resilience
Questions?
Questions?
Submit Artwork
Submit Artwork
http://tiny.cc/MCPSArtContest2025
Submission by Saturday May 10 (new date)
Submission by Saturday May 10 (new date)
Co-Sponsors:
Co-Sponsors:
Asian Pacific American Student Achievement Action Group (APASAAG)*
Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS)
OCA - Asian Pacific American Advocates - Greater Washington DC Chapter (OCA-DC)
Eugenia Henry, Ph.D.
*APASAAG works with MCPS and community stakeholders to support APA students and promote equitable educational opportunities for them to reach their fullest potential. It is an advisory council that liaisons with the MCPS Senior Community Advisor.
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