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
PK - 2 COLORING SHEETS
Students may choose one coloring sheet to complete and submit for judging. Click on the picture of the person of your choice, then download and print the coloring sheet. Coloring sheets are also available in each PK-2 school.
Note: Click on the person's name to learn more about the individual.
Former Mayor - City of Winchester
Term 2016-2024
Photo: City of Winchester Website
WWII The Six Triple Eight (6888th) Central Postal Battalion
Photo: Handley Archives