Renaissance today launched the “Shine a Light on Bilingualism” art contest to celebrate Hispanic culture and bilingualism.
All students in grades K–12 are invited to create and submit a painting, drawing, or mixed media piece on the theme of “celebrating Hispanic heritage and bilingualism.” Entries are due on June 30. On July 15, a winner will be selected for each grade band of K–3, 4–8, and 9–12. Each winner will receive a $500 Visa gift card and have their art featured during Renaissance’s celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, which takes place between September 15 and October 15.
Research shows that bilingualism and biliteracy have benefits beyond academics, including cognitive, employment, and societal benefits. By 2025, 85 percent of English Learners in US schools will have Spanish as their dominant language. Renaissance is excited to celebrate this group of students and support the educators who honor the knowledge and skills a child has in their home language and seek to build upon those skills to promote learning.
“Bilingual students enrich our classrooms in so many ways every day,” said Doris Chávez-Linville, Director of Linguistic and Culturally Diverse Innovation at Renaissance. “We’re honored to showcase students’ perspectives on what it means to be bilingual and the wonderful impact Hispanic heritage has had on communities and schools in the US.”
Although the art will be created by students, the work must be submitted by an adult, such as a teacher, parent, guardian, or other family member. To enter a K–12 student in the contest, an adult must upload a photo of the art to Renaissance.com/bilingual-arts-contest, or mail the original to Renaissance. Questions about the contest should be sent to [email protected]. For complete terms and conditions and to submit student art to the contest, visit Renaissance.com/bilingual-arts-contest.
