THEME

Honoring Local & Virginia Based Black / African American Figures

The Winchester City Black History Month Committee is excited to announce a Black History Month Contest honoring local and Virginia-based Black/African American figures.  Participants may submit essays, art, videos, music, poetry, or coloring sheets (PK-2 only) that highlight well-known or lesser-known Virginia-based individuals and their contributions to history, culture, or the community.

CONTEST CATEGORIES

• Elementary School (PK-2) - A pre-provided coloring sheet.

• Elementary School (3-4)

• Intermediate School (5-6)

• Middle School (7-8)

• High School (9-12)

• Adult Winchester City Residents (18 & Over)

CONTEST RULES

• Eligibility: Open to residents of Winchester City, VA or students of Winchester Public Schools.

• Focus Topic: Submissions must highlight a Black/African American figure from Winchester or Virginia.

• Originality: All submitted items must be original works created by the participant.  Plagerism or items created completely through artificial intelligence (AI) will be disqualified.

• Medium Options (except PK-2): Choose one of the following formats:

  • Essay: Maximum 500 words.

  • Art: Submissions may include drawings, paintings, collages, sculptures, photography, posters, clothing/designs, etc. Must include a short description of the artwork (maximum 150 words).

  • Video: 3–5 minutes in length.

  • Music: Original composition or performance (3–5 minutes in length).

  • Poetry: Minimum 12 lines, maximum 40 lines.

  • Coloring Sheets (PK-2 only): Participants will color a pre-provided sheet, which can be downloaded and printed from this website or obtained at their PK-2 school. Only one coloring sheet submission is required for judging.

• Submission Deadline: All entries are due Friday, February 28, 2025, by 11:59 PM.

SUBMISSION CONTENT REQUIREMENTS

All submissions must include the highlighted person’s name, key details about their life, and their connection to Winchester or Virginia.  Remember to discuss their significant contributions, challenges they may have encountered, and their lasting legacy or influence.  Pinpoint the reason why you chose this person and what you learned.  Be sure to include supporting details, quotes, or sources. 

How to Submit

Participants must submit their work by using one of the following methods:

• Electronically (Gmail required): 

Click here, the submit button at the top website, or visit https://bit.ly/WinchesterBHM25 

• WPS Student Submissions Directly from Schools: 

Interoffice mail to the attention of Dr. Veronique N. Walker

• Mail or In-Person Drop-Off:

Christian “Kit” Redmer, City of Winchester, 12 N. Cameron Street, Winchester, VA, 22601 

Submissions must include the submitter's Full Name, Contest Category, Contact Information (Phone and Email) and Title of Submission.

JUDGING CRITERIA

The Winchester City Black History Month Committee will evaluate submissions based on creativity and originality; historical relevance and accuracy; relevance to the contest theme; and overall presentation and effort. PK-2 coloring sheets will be judged on coloring ability, neatness, and effort.  Judging assistance will be provided by Winchester Public School Staff, depending on the total number of submissions.

PRIZES & RECOGNITION

1st Place Winner in each category will receive:

• Elementary School (PK-2): $25 Visa Gift Card

• Elementary School (3-4): $50 Visa Gift Card

• Intermediate School (5-6): $75 Visa Gift Card

• Middle School (7-8): $100 Visa Gift Card

• High School (9-12): $125 Visa Gift Card

• Adult Winchester City Resident (18 & Over): $150 Visa Gift Card 

Honorable mentions will be recognized.

CONTACTS

City of Winchester

Christian “Kit” Redmer  

Kit.Redmer@winchesterva.gov 

Ph: 720-289-1830 

Winchester Public Schools

Dr. Veronique N. Walker 

walkerv@wps.k12.va.us 

Ph: 540-667-4253