Florida students from kindergarten through 12th grade are being encouraged to participate in the 2025 Native American Heritage Month student 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 every November.
“We are proud to offer students opportunities to learn from and honor the Native Americans who have shaped Florida’s story,” said Commissioner of Education Anastasios Kamoutsas. “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 initiative invites all Florida students in grades K-3 to submit original two-dimensional artwork reflecting this year’s theme. Four winners will be chosen, each receiving a $200 gift card for school supplies and a one-year pass to Florida State Parks.
Students in grades 4-12 can participate in an essay contest. Six winners will be selected—two each from elementary (grades 4-5), middle (grades 6-8), and high school (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 enter, contestants must be residents of Florida attending any type of school within the state—including public, charter, private, home or virtual—and able to provide a Social Security Number. Essays must be written in English, limited to one per student, and not exceed 500 words. The essay should focus on a Floridian Native American whose story has had an impactful effect on the state.
Additionally, nominations are open for full-time educators at any level for Governor Ron DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis’ Native American Heritage Month Excellence in Education Award. Four educators will be recognized with $2,500 awards from Volunteer Florida. Nominations may come from principals, teachers, parents/guardians or students.
Entries and nominations can be submitted online at www.floridanativeamericanheritage.com or mailed directly to Volunteer Florida’s committee office in Tallahassee. All submissions must arrive by 5:00 pm Eastern Time on Friday, November 21, 2025.
Further details about eligibility requirements and submission guidelines are available at www.floridanativeamericanheritage.com.
