The Maryland Judiciary’s Mediation and Conflict Resolution Office (MACRO) is inviting students in grades K–8 to showcase their creativity and share powerful messages of peace through art!
Each year on the third Thursday in October, MACRO celebrates Conflict Resolution Day by hosting a statewide bookmark design contest. This exciting opportunity encourages Maryland students to illustrate what conflict resolution means to them—whether it’s listening, cooperating, solving problems peacefully, or respecting differences.
Who Can Enter?
The contest is open to three age groups:
- Kindergarten through 2nd grade
- 3rd through 5th grade
- 6th through 8th grade
Entries are judged on both artistic merit and how well they communicate peaceful conflict resolution strategies.
Why Participate?
This is more than just an art contest—it’s a chance to spark conversations about kindness, inclusion, and problem-solving. Plus, students can make a meaningful impact through their designs, which may be printed and shared in schools, libraries, and community centers across the state.
Since its launch in 2005, the contest has grown from just 40 entries to over 4,000 submissions annually!
Important Deadline:
Entries are due by October 16, 2025.
How to Get Involved:
- Teachers, parents, and community organizations are encouraged to support student participation.
- To receive contest updates and annual announcements, email your contact information to bookmarkcontest@mdcourts.gov.
- Want to share the winning bookmarks in your community or school? Limited quantities of printed bookmarks are available. Email your request to the same address while supplies last.
This is a fantastic opportunity for students to express themselves while learning life-long skills for resolving conflicts in healthy and creative ways.
