While the Virginia Lottery oversees various games of chance within the commonwealth, its Thank a Teacher Art Contest guarantees an opportunity for participation.
The fourth annual art contest deadline is approaching, and VA Lottery officials are sending out a reminder to students.
The latest contest holds great significance as it acknowledges and celebrates Virginia schoolteachers alongside the aspiring artists they educate, despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic throughout the year.
“Teachers, never failing to exceed expectations, don’t you agree?” Jennifer Mullen, the manager of public affairs and community relations at the Virginia Lottery, expressed to PlayVirginia. “Teachers are truly remarkable, especially in the midst of this virtual realm.”
Currently, I have a high school student who is attending classes in the virtual realm. The teachers’ incredible creativity and unwavering dedication are truly awe-inspiring. This is the message we aim to convey – the immense gratitude we have towards our teachers. While we have always appreciated them, now more than ever, we want to express our deepest thanks.
About the Thank a Teacher Art Contest
This year’s contest received support from the VA Lottery, the Virginia PTA, and The Supply Room.
Virginia students in K-12 public schools have the opportunity to participate in a contest. The contest requires students to create a unique artwork that expresses their gratitude towards Virginia’s teachers.
One winner is selected from each level by a distinguished panel of judges.
- Elementary school
- Middle school
- High school
The panel consists of various members, including the executive director of the Visual Arts Center of Richmond and a former awardee of the VA Lottery’s “Super Teacher” program, among others.
The deadline to submit your entries is this Monday, February 1st, and you can do so conveniently online at ThankATeacherVA.com. The winners of the lottery will be revealed by the officials in March.
The recipients of the contest will be awarded a $150 Visa gift card, and in addition, their respective schools will also be granted $2,000 from the lottery and The Supply Room.
Tips For a Winning Art Submission
Check out this heartwarming video showcasing the incredible artwork of last year’s winners.
So, what are the characteristics of typical winning submissions? As Mullen stated, they possess more than just visual appeal; they delve deeper into their essence.
When you come across the submissions from these students, you can truly feel the depth of emotion they are trying to express and their immense gratitude towards their teachers. This sentiment is beautifully translated into their artwork. So, indeed, you can recognize a winning entry when you see it, but you also experience it on a profound level.
Students throughout the commonwealth will have access to the winning entries. The artwork will be showcased on printed and virtual thank-you notes, which will be given to teachers during National Teacher Appreciation Week in May.
Favorite teachers can be thanked by students, parents, and others through the use of these cards.
VA Lottery’s Commitment to K-12 Education
All profits generated by the VA Lottery have been allocated towards K-12 public education in Virginia since 1999. Since its inception, the total amount of funds directed towards K-12 education has surpassed $6 billion. In the most recent fiscal year, the proceeds amounted to $595 million.
The funds make up approximately 10% of the education budget for the entire state.
So, specifically, what is its purpose?
- School breakfast programs
- Virginia Preschool Initiative
- K-3 classroom-size reductions
- Career and technical education
Naturally, the responsibility for overseeing sports betting and casino gambling in the commonwealth now falls under the VA Lottery. However, the generated revenue from these activities is specifically designated for various other initiatives.
On the other hand, the increased presence of the VA Lotto will provide officials with a chance to promote its support for K-12 education.
The future remains uncertain for numerous teachers and students, yet as demonstrated during a global pandemic, educators frequently rise to the occasion.
Mullen expressed the perpetual quest to recognize and showcase educators, particularly in current times.
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