APS News Release

APS Accepting Entries for the 2017 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Literary and Visual Arts Contest

Arlington Public Schools students are invited to take part in the annual “Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Literary and Visual Contest.” Entries are due by 5 p.m. Fri, Dec. 9.

This Year’s Topic:
Dr. King was a brilliant and brave leader. His truth, dedication and commitment resonated with people across our nation and throughout the world. Today, his fearless dedication to equality and peaceful progress continue to inspire and challenge all of us.

On March 8, 1965, Dr. King spoke about Courage and said, “Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.”

Dr. King urged all of us to feel passionate about freedom and justice—when we feel strongly, we must speak up and not remain silent.Using this quote from Dr. King, describe in writing or through visual art how speaking up (or being silent) about something can change your personal life, your community or the world.

Eligibility
The contest is open to all APS students in grades K-12. Awards will be given in four grade levels: K-2; 3-5; 6-8; and 9-12.

Awards
Contest winners will be announced in January. Winners will be recognized at Arlington County’s Tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. event on Sun, Jan. 15 at Wakefield High School. Students will also be recognized at the School Board meeting on Thu, Jan. 19, 2016. Each first place entry along with a photograph of the winners will be published in the Sun-Gazette newspaper and on its website.

Rules
Contest rules and entry forms are available online and at all APS schools, Arlington County libraries and community centers. There is no fee to enter the contest. Written entries can be submitted by email to mlkentries@apsva.us or all entries can be dropped off at any APS school or Arlington community center. Drop-off Locations Entries must be received by 5 p.m. on Fri. Dec. 4, at any of the following locations:

  • Arlington Education Center: 1426 N. Quincy St., Room 106, 703-228-2581
  • Barcroft Sports and Fitness Center: 4200 S. Four Mile Run Dr., 703-228-0701
  • Carver: 1415 S. Queen St., 703-228-5706
  • Drew: 3500 S. 24th St., 703-228-5725
  • Fairlington: 3808 S. Stafford St., 703-228-6588
  • Gunston: 2700 S. Lang St., 703-228-6980
  • Jefferson: 3501 S. 2nd St., 703-228-5920
  • Langston-Brown: 2121 N. Culpeper St., 703-228-5210
  • Lee: 5722 Lee Highway, 703-228-0550
  • Lubber Run: 300 N. Park Dr., 703-228-4727
  • Walter Reed: 2909 S. 16th St., 703 228-0935

For additional information, contact Dawn Smith at 703-228-2581 or by email dawn.smith@apsva.us.