It was truly my pleasure to host the 2009 Lt. Governor's Art Contest at the end of the 2008-2009 school year. This contest was particularly exciting, as I had an opportunity to see the creative work of Delaware's schoolchildren. I also now have the distinct pleasure of having some of the winning art surrounding me in my Dover and Wilmington office.

On April 17, 2009, I asked my staff to send a letter to every public and charter school in the state giving them information about the 2009 Lt. Governor's Art Contest. The letter asked teachers to encourage their students to share their creative talents around the theme, "Delaware: Our Home." The art could come in any medium, but had to be 8x10 in size. The children could use images, building, symbols, and other items that made them think of Delaware in their art. We were overwhelmed with the response, as we received over 300 amazing entries from across the State of Delaware.

My staff convened a team of judges to review all of the entries and they selected the winners. The winners were selected in three categories: elementary school, middle school and high school. It was great fun to host the winners for a reception in my Dover office in August. Many thanks are due to Cameras, Etc. of Wilmington, for their kind donation of all the framing for the artwork.

Below is a list of winners and the schools they attend:

We look forward to hosting a similar contest in 2010 and for years to come. Congratulations to each of the winners!!