Florida students and educators are invited to showcase their talents in the 2026 Black History Month contests hosted by the Department of Education and Volunteer Florida
Tallahassee, Florida – The Florida Department of Education and Volunteer Florida are calling on students and educators across the state to participate in the 2026 Black History Month contests, aimed at celebrating and honoring the contributions of African Americans to Florida’s rich history and culture. The initiative, announced on January 26, 2026, encourages students of all ages and educators to engage with the theme, “Celebrating Black History,” through creative and academic projects that showcase learning and excellence.
“Black History Month is a time to celebrate the profound contributions of African Americans to Florida’s rich history and culture,” said Commissioner of Education Anastasios Kamoutsas. “I hope every student takes this opportunity to learn about the ways Florida has been shaped and strengthened by these contributions.”
The contests are designed to be inclusive and engaging for students at every level of education. Kindergarten through third-grade students are invited to participate in an art contest, creating original two-dimensional works inspired by the year’s theme. Four winners will be selected statewide, each receiving a $200 gift card for school supplies and a one-year pass to Florida State Parks. The goal is to inspire younger students to creatively explore Black history while developing an early appreciation for its impact on their communities.
Students in grades four through twelve can participate in the essay contest, with entries highlighting thoughtful reflections on Black history in Florida. Six winners will be chosen: two elementary school students in grades four and five, two middle school students in grades six through eight, and two high school students in grades nine through twelve. Winners will receive a two-year Florida College Plan scholarship through the Florida Prepaid College Foundation and a $200 gift card for school supplies. To participate, students must be Florida residents attending any public, private, charter, home, or virtual school, and essays must be written in English, no longer than 500 words.
“Black History Month contests provide an opportunity to celebrate excellence while honoring the lasting contributions of African Americans across our state,” said Josie Tamayo, CEO of Volunteer Florida. “We are proud to recognize students and educators whose efforts bring history to life and inspire learning beyond the classroom.”
In addition to student contests, the 2026 Black History Month Excellence in Education Award allows students, parents, teachers, and principals to nominate full-time educators in elementary, middle, or high schools throughout Florida. Four educators will be selected for their outstanding contributions to student learning and commitment to highlighting Black history. Award recipients will receive $2,500 from Volunteer Florida. Nominations can be submitted by any member of the school community, emphasizing a collaborative approach to recognizing teaching excellence.
All contest entries and educator nominations may be submitted online at www.floridablackhistory.com or mailed to Volunteer Florida. The contests not only celebrate achievements in education and creativity but also foster a deeper understanding of African American history among students and the broader community.
By participating in the 2026 Black History Month contests, students and educators can explore Florida’s cultural heritage, showcase talent and scholarship, and inspire others to learn about the pivotal role African Americans have played in shaping the state. This statewide initiative provides an opportunity to recognize innovation, learning, and dedication while promoting inclusivity and cultural awareness in schools across Florida.
Through these contests, the Florida Department of Education and Volunteer Florida continue to encourage students to express their creativity, strengthen their knowledge of history, and honor the educators who guide and inspire them. This annual celebration of Black History Month reinforces the importance of recognizing contributions that have shaped Florida’s past and continue to influence its present and future.
