Any Marjory Stoneman Douglas student with artistic skill and a sense of competitiveness should get out their sketch books and begin planning out their design, because Mrs. Diana Haneski is hosting the first ever MSD bookmark contest.

To apply, all you have to do is grab the designated flier from the media center, which contestants are to print their bookmark design on. The rules are simple- any type of media can be used, as long as it is original artwork. Additionally, all students must follow the bookmark theme “It’s Time to Read.”

Haneski explains her hopes for a wide range of applicants.

“I hope to have a first, second and third place bookmark, however I also want to have a winner for each grade level,” Haneski said.

Each bookmark will be judged by Haneski herself, along with several art teachers. One of the main purposes for this bookmark contest is to motivate and influence MSD students to read.

“I want the bookmark to make someone think about it, and for them to get some sort of feeling from it- like motivating them to read. I want it to be where you look at it and say, ‘That’s really good,'” Haneski said. “I advise everyone competing to do what they feel, let the art flow, and just be inspired by the theme.”

Students are already working on a plan to their bookmaker designs, and are thrilled about this opportunity.

“The contest sounds really fun. I feel like I can do something really sick with the theme,” junior Jessica Lewis said.

Haneski is thrilled with the positive feedback coming from students and teachers thus far.

“I’m so happy with the response from the teachers and the students,” Haneski said. “I can’t wait to print the bookmark that the kids made.”

The winning bookmark will be published, printed and shared with our school community. Every applicant must return their completed bookmark by May 27 to Haneski. As the message says on the flier, “Your artwork could be chosen. Have fun and be creative!”