California K-12 Students Encouraged to Get Artistic about Keeping California Clean

Clean California Program Accepting Multimedia Art Contest Submissions until Mar. 24; Cash Prizes Awarded for Winning Entries

SACRAMENTO — A statewide multimedia contest led by the Clean California program is accepting entries from K-12 students through Monday, Mar. 24. The contest calls on students to create either a 30-second video or an 8.5″ x 14″ (or smaller) handmade poster to illustrate how litter impacts California communities. 

“At Caltrans, we take pride in our communities we call home, and we encourage all Californians to be responsible stewards of our great state,” said Caltrans Director Tony Tavares. “We hope this contest helps students understand that it doesn’t matter how old you are, you can make a difference and help keep California clean.” 

“The youngest Californians have some of the most creative solutions for big challenges, including environmental issues and sustainability,” said Barry Edwards, President of Keep California Beautiful. “This is a great opportunity for students to showcase their creativity. By addressing one of the state’s most pressing issues—mitigating litter and beautifying community spaces—students can help educate others across the state on the importance of keeping California clean.” 

Using the Clean California initiative’s tagline “Just One Piece of Litter Can Ruin [fill in the blank],” students can submit a video or poster that depicts how even one piece of litter can ruin a picture, be it a water bottle in front of a historical building or a fast-food bag in a community garden. Students are encouraged to be creative in their entries. Students in grades 3-12 will be required to share a summary of their project (in 500 words or less), including sources used and any additional ideas for reducing litter at their school and in their community. 

One winner will be selected from each of the following grade groups: K-2, 3-5, 6-8, and 9-12. Each winner will receive a $500 gift card. The K-12 Multimedia Contest is open to California students attending public, private, charter, or home schools, to express their 

creativity while inspiring others to keep California clean. Parental permission is required to enter. Visit CleanCA.com/Education to review the complete rules and instructions and enter for a chance to win. Learn more about projects building your community at build.ca.gov.