The New Jersey Department of Human Services (NJDHS) invites pre-teens and teens across the state to participate in its Annual Teen Media Contest sponsored by the New Jersey Department of Human Services, Division of Family Development, focusing on parental responsibility.

The statewide contest is open to New Jersey middle school and high school students.

This year's contest theme is: Schools and families often help one another during times of need. Illustrate the ways in which your parent(s) have instilled in you the importance of community service and being a well-rounded student.

All entries must be postmarked no later than Friday, April 5, 2013.

An emphasis is placed on the idea that while they may not live together under one roof – both parents are responsible for enriching the life and securing the future of their child. The DHS intends to use winning student entries to promote this public awareness campaign aimed at New Jersey’s non-custodial parents.

Evaluation Criteria & Judging

Members of the New Jersey Department of Human Services with representatives from various other organizations and/or corporations in the State will serve as judges for the Teen Media Contest.

Judging of artwork will be based on the following criteria (in no specific order).

    • Theme Depiction
    • Overall Appearance
    • Originality
    • Design & Execution

Prizes

U.S. Savings Bonds will be awarded to three students in each category. For example, a first, second and third place winner will be chosen from middle school grades and a first, second and third place winner from high school grades. A special awards presentation will take place in May.