(BLACK PR WIRE) (February 07, 2011) Tallahassee, Fla. – Governor Rick Scott and Lt. Governor Jennifer Carroll today are proud to announce Florida’s Black History Month “Celebrating African-American Leaders in Business – Past, Present and Future” website and invite students in kindergarten through 12th grades to participate in the Florida Black History Month art and essay contests. The Governor also invites students, parents, teachers and principals to nominate full-time African-American educators in elementary, middle or high schools for the Black History Month Excellence in Education Award.

“Black History Month is a great opportunity to educate Floridians about the achievements of African-American leaders throughout our state’s history,” Governor Scott said. “The cultural contributions to our state and country continue to leave a lasting legacy of strength, determination and pride.”

About the Student Contests

Art Contest for Grades K-3 – The Black History Month art contest is open to all Florida students in grades K-3, and two winners will be selected. Please visit www.FloridaBlackHistory.com to download complete guidelines and entry forms.

Essay Contest for Grades 4-12 – The Black History Month essay contest is open to all 4th through 12th grade students in Florida. Six winners will be selected: two elementary (4-5) students, two middle (6-8) students, and two high school (9-12) students. Winners will receive a four-year Florida College Plan scholarship provided by the Florida Prepaid College Foundation.

Please visit www.FloridaBlackHistory.com to download complete guidelines and entry forms.

About the Excellence in Education Award

Governor Scott’s annual Black History Month Excellence in Education Award Contest is open to all African-American, full time educators in an elementary, middle or high school in Florida. Three winners will be selected: one elementary (K-5) teacher, one middle school (6-8) teacher and one high school (9-12) teacher. Winners will receive a check for $1500. Forms can be found at www.FloridaBlackHistory.com.

Contest Guidelines

Student Contests and Educator Nomination forms must be mailed to:

Florida’s Foundation
Attention: Black History Month
820 East Park Avenue, E-100
Tallahassee, Florida 32301

All entries must be postmarked by 5:00 p.m. EST, February 11, 2011.

For additional information about Florida’s black history, contests and other related events, please visit www.FloridaBlackHistory.com.