Circle of Empowerment: Education, Language, Culture, Tradition is the theme that kicks off the fourth annual Native American Student Artist Competition (SAC). The competition, open to American Indian and Alaska Native students in grades Pre-K through 12, celebrates the values and documents the successes of education in Native communities. Through this competition, the Office of Indian Education hopes to inspire students to explore the connection between education and Native culture.

 

For the first time, the 2008 competition will include a personal narrative category for writers from grades 6 through 12. Writing entries will be no more than 2 typed pages, double-spaced with 12 point font. They must also relate to the 2008 theme and reflect the promise and importance of pursuing an education.

 

Since its inception, the SAC has grown from generating a few hundred entries during the first year to over 1,400 outstanding entries from participants in 34 states, representing over 175 tribes and clans. To continue this growth in participation, the Office of Indian Education appreciates the support in spreading the word about the 2008 competition. Parents, students, and teachers have been instrumental in promoting the competition and demonstrating the value of culture, the arts, and academic achievement of Native students.

 

All entries for the 2008 SAC must be related to the theme and should reflect the promise and importance of pursuing an education for Native youth. Submissions will be judged in six different grade-based categories, and prizes will be awarded to 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners in each of these categories. To participate, all 2008 participants must register online at www.indianeducation.org/sac or by calling 1-866-259-0060 to receive a registration confirmation number prior to submitting their entry.  The postmark deadline for the 2008 competition is Friday, March 14, 2008.

 

Every year the SAC has a specific theme to which student participants tailor their entries. The themes chosen are inspirational and challenging, and they symbolize a bridge to each student’s educational future. Previous themes have included the following:

·         Our Goal, Our Path, Our People

·         The Power to Dream, The Power to Achieve

·         Education: A Dream Without Boundaries

 

For questions, detailed information, and promotional materials about the 2008 Native American Student Artist Competition, including rules and guidelines, please visit www.indianeducation.org/sac or contact competition coordinator Paula Arevalo at parevalo@kauffmaninc.com or 1-866-259-0060.