Montana Attorney General Austin Knudsen, in partnership with the Montana Highway Patrol (MHP) and Stockman Bank, has announced the opening of submissions for the 2025 Law Enforcement Appreciation Poster Contest. The contest invites elementary school students across Montana to create artwork that expresses their appreciation for law enforcement officers.
Now in its fourth year, the poster contest aims to promote public service while giving young Montanans a chance to showcase their artistic talent and express gratitude toward law enforcement officials.
“This contest is a great way for Montana’s elementary school students to show their respect and appreciation for law enforcement officers across the state. In Montana, we back the blue, and it’s important to instill that principle in children at a young age,” said Attorney General Knudsen. “I encourage every eligible student to participate.”
Montana Highway Patrol Colonel Kurt Sager echoed Knudsen’s sentiments, emphasizing the importance of the contest for building connections with students and highlighting the value of support for law enforcement. “It’s a great opportunity for us to connect with students on what it means to us to be a law enforcement officer. The showing of support also means a lot to our troopers,” Sager said.
Bill Coffee, CEO of Stockman Bank, added, “We are excited to be a part of this program recognizing the work of law enforcement across our state and giving our youth the opportunity to share their creativity.”
Prizes will be awarded to winners in each of the seven Montana Highway Patrol districts. Each district winner will receive a $250 award from Stockman Bank, along with an ice cream social hosted by MHP troopers. From the district winners, one statewide winner will be selected to receive an additional $500 from Stockman Bank, a visit from Attorney General Knudsen, and an opportunity for a ride-along with MHP Colonel Sager. The winning poster will also be displayed in Montana Department of Justice offices statewide.
Contest Rules:
- Applicants must be in elementary school.
- Artwork should reflect the student’s appreciation for law enforcement.
- Digital artwork is not allowed; submissions should be created using traditional mediums such as acrylics, watercolor, pencils, charcoal, markers, crayons, or pastels.
- Preferred poster size is 8.5 x 14 inches, though 8.5×11 and 11×17 sizes are also accepted.
- Submissions must include the original artwork, a brief biography, and a completed application.
Entries should be mailed to the Attorney General’s Office, Attention: Law Enforcement Poster Contest, 215 N. Sanders, Helena, MT 59601.
The deadline for submissions is approaching, and participants are encouraged to submit their creative works soon.
By: DNU staff