The Commonwealth Office of the Ombudsman in Kentucky, led by Auditor of Public Accounts Allison Ball, has announced a drawing contest for students aged 13 and under. This initiative coincides with the celebration of Read Across America Day, scheduled for March 2, 2026. The contest invites young artists to create bookmark-sized illustrations that depict their favorite storybook character experiencing the joy of reading.
To participate, students must submit original artwork that is entirely their own and must not be copied from existing works or generated by artificial intelligence. All submissions are due by February 19, 2026. Young artists can send their entries via email to [email protected] or visit the auditor’s official website for additional details.
Selection Process and Prizes
After the submission deadline, the Auditor’s office will review all entries and select the top three drawings. These finalists will then be showcased on the Auditor’s social media platforms, allowing the public to vote for their favorite illustration. The artwork that garners the most votes will be featured on the Ombudsman’s bookmarks, which will be distributed for free at public libraries throughout Kentucky.
This contest not only encourages creativity among young students but also promotes literacy and the importance of reading. For any inquiries or further information regarding the contest, participants are encouraged to reach out to [email protected].
This initiative represents a commitment to fostering a love for literature among Kentucky’s youth while providing them an opportunity to showcase their artistic talents.
