New Jersey Human Services has announced that teens from across the state can begin submitting entries for the 26th annual New Jersey Teen Media Contest, which highlights Human Services’ mission to support families, especially during these challenging times.
The contest, run by Human Services’ Division of Family Development, is open to all New Jersey middle school and high school age children. The contest will once again accept entries in the hand-painted/hand-drawn and written word categories, according to a press release.
The 2021 contest challenges teens to illustrate – through art or the written word – how they and their loved ones have supported each other through all of the changes that have happened this year, from remote schooling to finding new ways to stay connected to friends and family.
“These have been challenging times and so much has changed in the world around us,” Human Services Commissioner Carole Johnson was quoted as saying in a press release.
“From spending time with our families and loved ones while socially distanced, to doing activities on a computer we usually do in-person, this year affected us all in many ways. With that in mind, we again look forward to the creativity of New Jersey teens and to celebrating their talents,” Johnson said.
All entries must be postmarked no later than March 31. Staff from the Division of Family Development and its Office of Child Support Services will judge the contest.
Winners will be selected in first, second and third places in the middle school and high school groups, for each of the two entry categories.
Typically, winning students are recognized at an awards ceremony in mid-May, but a final decision on an awards ceremony will be made at a later date based on the status of the public health emergency and related health and safety guidelines, according to the press release.
Winning entries from the contest will be included in the 2022 Office of Child Support Calendar, as well as potentially being included as part of the office’s marketing materials. A number of honorable mention entries will also be selected for possible inclusion in both areas.
The 2021 calendar can be viewed or downloaded from the contest homepage, www.NJTeenMedia.org, to serve as inspiration for teens.
The website also provides the official rules, frequently asked questions, entry forms, a look at the winners and honorable mentions from previous contests and other important contest information.
Teachers and administrators can register their school by visiting www.NJTeenMedia.org or by contacting Matthew Cossel at 201-702-1667 or matthew.cossel@efkgroup.com. School registration is not required for direct student entry.
For complete submission guidelines, visit www.NJTeenMedia.org
For more information about child support services, call 1-877-NJKIDS1 or visit www.NJChildSupport.org
