TALLAHASSEE, FL - On February 27, 2025, Governor Ron DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis announced the winners of the Black History Month student art and essay contest and educator awards. This year’s theme is Honoring African American Contributions to Florida’s Success. The Black History Month Student and Educator Contests are made possible through a collaboration between the Department of Education, Volunteer Florida, the Florida Lottery and the Florida Prepaid College Foundation.

“It is important that our students learn about American history and the contributions that African American leaders have made to the success of our state,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “I am proud of these students who went above and beyond to apply what they have learned to these contests.”

“I am proud of every student that participated in this year’s Black History Month contest,” said Commissioner of Education Manny Diaz, Jr. “Their submissions were inspiring and an example of the important work that our teachers do every day to inspire our students through knowledge.”

“Volunteer Florida is proud to recognize the winners of this year’s Black History Month contests," said Volunteer Florida CEO Josie Tamayo. “Their creativity and passion reflect the rich history, culture, and contributions of African Americans throughout our state. We celebrate their achievements and the impact they will continue to make in their communities and beyond.”

Student Art Contest
Students in kindergarten through third grade were invited to submit original artworks for the contest. Four art contest winners were chosen, and each received a $100 gift card for school supplies and a one-year pass to Florida state parks. 

The winners of the student art contest are:

• Joshua Gonzalez
• Aria Santiago
• Aminah Smith
• Lauren Mayer

Student Essay Contest

Students in fourth through twelfth grade were invited to submit essays based on this year’s theme. Six winners were selected including two elementary students (grades 4–5), two middle school students (grades 6–8), and two high school students (grades 9–12). Winners received a two-year Florida College Plan scholarship provided by the Florida Prepaid College Foundation and a $100 gift card for school supplies. 

The winners of the essay contest are:

• Kei’Ani McQuown (Grade 5)
• Vanessa Viera (Grader 5)
• Gabriel Brown (Grade 8)
• Evangeline Baldwin (Grade 7)
• Manuel Perez (Grade 11)
• Aaron Gordon (Grade 11)

Excellence in Education Award
Four winners are chosen for the Excellence in Education Award Contest. The winners were selected from nominations sent in by principals, teachers, parents or guardians, and students. Excellence in Education Award winners received a $2,500 monetary recognition provided by Volunteer Florida. 

The Excellence in Education Award winners are:

• Ashley Kidd, Okeechobee High School
• Nicole Cross, Veterans Park Academy for the Arts
• Rosalyn Jackson, Edison Park K-8 Center
• Andrea Miles-Vranish, Yulee Middle School