(Meridian, ID) – The Idaho State Police (ISP), in partnership with the U.S. Department of Justice, announces the 42nd Annual National Missing Children’s Day Poster Contest. This is a great opportunity for fifth-grade students across Idaho to showcase their creativity and contribute to the important cause of child safety by creating artwork around the theme: “Bringing Our Missing Children Home.”
National Missing Children’s Day, observed annually on May 25, raises awareness about child abduction and honors those working tirelessly to protect children. This day was established in memory of Etan Patz, a six-year-old boy who went missing in 1979, serving as a poignant reminder of the ongoing need for prevention, education, and advocacy.
“Every child’s safety is a community responsibility, and this contest is a powerful way to spotlight the importance of bringing our missing children home,” said Kara Kelley, Idaho Missing Persons Clearinghouse Manager. “By participating in this contest, students are not just creating art; they are contributing to a vital conversation about safety and prevention in a creative and impactful way.”
This contest is not just for students but also teachers and parents. It offers a chance to engage in meaningful discussions about child safety and the importance of finding and getting missing children home. All state winners will represent their state in the national competition, and the national winner will travel to Washington, D.C., with their teacher and parents to be honored at the National Missing Children’s Day ceremony in May 2025.
How to Participate
- Who Can Enter: Fifth-grade students in Idaho.
- Theme: Posters must include the phrase “Bringing Our Missing Children Home.”
- Poster Requirements:
- Size: 8½ x 14 inches.
- Media: Drawings, paintings, or similar illustrations. (Digital, collage, or cutouts are not accepted).
- Reflect creativity and originality while depicting the theme.
- Submission Deadline: February 22, 2025.
- Submission Details: Posters must be accompanied by a completed application, which includes a brief biography of the artist and a description of the artwork. For more information and submission guidelines, visit the ISP website at isp.idaho.gov/alerts/contest.
Awards and Recognition
- State Submissions: All participants receive a letter of appreciation for their efforts.
- State Certificates: 1st Place, 2nd Place, and 3rd Place finishers.
- State Winner: Receives an award certificate from the Department of Justice and will represent Idaho in the national competition.
- National Winner: Travels to Washington, D.C., with their teacher and parents for the National Missing Children’s Day ceremony. Their poster will be professionally printed and displayed as a national awareness symbol.