The sky is the limit on your creative participation. Examples of artwork may include artistic representations of how students are “better together.” Students may create collages, use mixed media, and create works that contain words, songs, poetry, and pictures. Artwork submissions may be 2-D or 3-D and also can be in pottery and clay representations of the theme, “Together We’re Better”. The format is up to each school/teacher guiding the artwork activity for students. This is an individual student artwork contest and not a class artwork contest.
A copy of the included entry form must be filled out and submitted with the artwork. Print all information clearly and fill out the form completely. Any submissions that include photographs of students must be accompanied by an authorization for release of the image with the form signed by the parent/legal guardian of each child pictured.
Submissions can be made virtually (by emailing a file of the artwork or high-quality photo) or mailed physically. If your piece is selected for an award, you will be required to mail the physical artwork to be honored.
Please note that all artwork submissions become the property of The Arc Maryland and will not be returned. Contest submissions may be used throughout the year in libraries, local businesses, and Disability Awareness campaigns, etc. in cooperation with Maryland schools and local Arc Chapters. Artwork may also be reproduced in newsletters, websites, social media, and other forms.
Judging Criteria
Winning entries will be selected based upon the following criteria:
- Follows the National Theme, “CHILDREN FIRST – Building a Stronger Tomorrow” and what it means to you.
- Creativity and originality in showing inclusion.
- Use of materials/supplies.
All submissions of Art are due by January 14, 2026. Any entries received after the stated deadline shall not be considered for an award.
First Place, Second Place, and Third Place will be awarded in both the elementary and middle school divisions. The judging committee will consist of members of the Maryland Developmental Disabilities Council, the Maryland Department of Disabilities, The Arc Maryland, and the Maryland State Department of Education. Judging will be by the committee and will be carried out in a fair and professional manner.
The judging panel decisions are final. Schools with winning entries will be contacted by email or phone. Winning students, a parent or legal guardian, and teachers will be invited to be recognized during Developmental Disabilities Day at the Legislature, on February 18, 2026.
| Winning Entries | ||
| First Place Honoree | Student – $75 gift card | School prize: $500 award |
| Second Place Honoree | Student – $50 gift card | School prize: $200 award |
| Third Place Honoree | Student – $25 gift card | School prize: $100 award |
Additional Information
For questions or additional information, please contact Sharon Dols at The Arc Maryland via email at sdols@thearcmd.org.
This project is supported by the Administration for Community Living (ACL), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award totaling $1,262,502 with 100% funding by ACL/HHS. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by ACL/HHS, or the U.S. Government.