Students are encouraged to use their creativity to show what clean air means to them. Photo designed by Magnific

AUBURN, CA (MPG) - The Placer County Air Pollution Control District is inviting K–12 students attending school in Placer County to participate in its 2026 Air Art Calendar Contest. This year’s theme, “Clean Air for Everyone,” encourages students to explore what clean air means to them and how people can help protect air quality.

“This contest is a great way to connect students, teachers and schools with air quality in a creative and meaningful way. We’re looking forward to seeing this year’s artwork and even greater participation," Air Pollution Control Officer Erik C. White said. 

Students may submit original artwork for a chance to win a cash prize and have their artwork featured in the District’s 2027 Air Art Calendar. The deadline to enter is Oct. 31.

The contest is open to all K-12 students attending school in Placer County. Students may submit one entry, and there is no cost to participate.

First, second and third-place winners will be selected for each grade level, kindergarten through 12th grade. The first place prize is $50, second place is $30 and third place is $20.

Selected artwork will be featured in the District’s 2027 Air Art Calendar. Every student who submits eligible artwork with a completed entry form will receive a copy of the calendar.

Winners will be notified in January 2027, with student recognition planned for February 2027.

The teacher associated with each first-place winner will receive a $50 classroom stipend, for up to 13 teacher awards.

The school with the most eligible contest entries will receive a sweet treat gift basket for school faculty and staff.

Students are encouraged to use their creativity to show what clean air means to them. Artwork may include clean air messaging in English, Spanish or both languages. Students are not required to include written text.

Requirements include the artwork must be original work created by the student, be on 8.5”-by-11” paper, be landscape/horizontal, be flat and suitable for reproduction and it must use materials such as crayons, markers, colored pencils or paint. The artwork is not to be folded  or stapled, include three-dimensional materials and cannot include copyrighted characters, company or product logos or inappropriate content. 

All submissions must include a completed entry form to be eligible.

Entries may be submitted by mail to or submitted in person at the Placer County Air Pollution Control District located on110 Maple St. Auburn, CA 95603.

Entries may also be submitted online at  PlacerAir.org/airart or by email [email protected].

Mailed entries must be postmarked by Oct. 31. 

For entries submitted online or by email, students whose artwork is selected for the calendar may be asked to provide the original artwork or a high-quality scan to ensure the best possible reproduction.

For contest details, artwork requirements, and the entry form, visit PlacerAir.org/airart.