Illustrating the power of communication.

We've sent this to all Collier County public school art teachers, now it's your turn to receive our news! We know that great books and great movies begin with a great story, but often, great stories begin with an simple idea, thought, or sometimes, a single word! Illustrating the power of communication is the goal of the K is for Kids� Foundation "Power of the Word" art contest, as a part of its Bring a Book, Bring a Friend for Children's Literacy Month in February. Participation in the K is for Kids program is a unique way for students to explore and learn how to visually express the power of words and the importance of reading. We hope you'll want to encourage your students to enter! Take a moment and read all about it. We look forward to seeing your students' imaginations at work!

Artfully,

25 finalists will have their work displayed in a public exhibition AND have photos of their artwork published as part of our Young Authors book.

Theme -- The Power of the Word art contest gives young artists an opportunity to demonstrate how reading can affect their lives and the lives of those around them. Artists must choose a word, phrase or poem to illustrate by showing the strength, impact, effects, consequences, results OR influence those word(s) can have, through artistic treatment.

Entries will be judged by local fine art professionals as well as a K is for Kids� Advisory Council member and Teen Advisory Team Council member, both of who are artists themselves. Winners will be revealed during the Power of Word artists' reception at the Collier County Sheriff's Office records gallery, where all 25 Finalists' artwork will be on display from April 20 - June 3.

For a complete list of prizes, visit www.KisforKids.org.

K is for Kids� Foundation promotes literacy and a love of reading in children by enriching their libraries and expanding their access to books in and out of school. Through its focused efforts, K is for Kids� helps cultivate the skills kids need to be creative thinkers, adventurous problem solvers and visionary leaders.

PRINT COUPON & SHARE WITH YOUR FRIENDS! 1) This competition is open to all 6th, 7th and 8th grade students in Collier County. Students do not have to be enrolled in an art class to enter. 2) All entries must be original work and must be received at CCPS Fine Arts Coordinator Linda Cummings' office, no later than Friday, March 18. 3) Submissions should be on 16 x 20 inch, unmatted drawing paper. Any medium can be used. 4) The actual word, phrase or poem being illustrated must be included as part of the artwork. 5) Entries will be judged on adherence to theme, ease of interpretation, skilled use of media and effectiveness of message. 6) The following information must be printed on the back of every entry: Student's name, home phone, grade, school and an art or language arts teacher's name, if applicable and student's and/or parent's e-mail address. First name and last initial only printed on front, bottom right corner. 7) Artwork will be returned by June 6.