National art contest encourages students to share thoughts about the U.S.

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) -- Students can share their perspective on what America means to them through a national art contest.

YWCA USA has partnered with America250 for "America's Field Trip," a competition that encourages children in grades 3 through 12 to create original artwork (physical and digital art, essays) to win a trip to American landmarks, including Yellowstone National Park and the Kennedy Space Center. The contest is a celebration of the 250th birthday of the United States.

Twenty-five first-place winners from each category will receive travel and lodging accommodations for three days and two nights with a chaperone.

There will be 25 second-place winners from each category who will receive a $500 cash prize.

Judging will be based on clarity of the idea, student voice and presentation.

The submission deadline is 4 p.m. on Wednesday, April 16. Local students wanting to enter the contest can contact the St. Joseph YWCA at 816-232-4481 or visit 304 N. Eighth St.

Minors applying through the YWCA will need parental/guardian consent.

Students also can submit their art online at America250.org/FieldTrip/Application.