Students invited to illustrate ideas for improving air quality
by: Brielle Jamros, Public Information Officer
The Yolo-Solano Air Quality Management District has opened its 2026 Clean Air Art Contest for students in transitional kindergarten through 12th grade. This year’s theme, “Heroes for Clean Air,” invites students to showcase how they can help improve air quality.
“We’re excited to launch the contest again this spring to coincide with Earth Day lessons in classrooms,” said Air District Executive Director Gretchen Bennitt. “It’s always inspiring to see how students envision solutions for cleaner air.”
New this year, winning artwork will be featured on stickers and other giveaway items instead of the District’s traditional calendar.
“We wanted to refresh the contest and share air quality messages with the community in new ways,” Bennitt said. “Stickers felt like a fun and engaging way to reach both kids and adults.”
Poor air quality has well-documented impacts on both human health and the environment. This contest provides an opportunity to raise awareness while encouraging students to think about the everyday actions they can take to help improve air quality, Bennitt said.
The contest will recognize 12 winners. Air District staff will select first-, second-, and third-place winners in each of the following grade categories: TK–2, 3–5, 6–8, and 9–12. Winners will receive Amazon gift cards ($30 for first place and $25 for second and third place) and will have their artwork featured on stickers and other materials distributed throughout the community.
The deadline to submit artwork is 4 p.m. on May 8. Students must attend schools within District boundaries, which include all of Yolo County and the northeastern portion of Solano County, including Dixon, Rio Vista, and Vacaville. Artwork must be submitted on 8.5” x 11” paper. Entries, along with completed digital entry forms, may be submitted online via the entry form, by email to ArtContest@ysaqmd.org or delivered in person to the District office at 1947 Galileo Court, Suite 103, Davis, CA 95618. For entry forms in English and Spanish, and contest information, visit: ysaqmd.org/classrooms. Class presentations available upon request.
The Yolo-Solano Air Quality Management District’s mission is to protect human health and property from the harmful effects of air pollution. As a public health agency, the District is responsible for safeguarding air quality and overseeing air pollution control in Yolo and northeastern Solano counties, including the cities of Dixon, Rio Vista, and Vacaville. For more information, visit ysaqmd.org. Connect with the Air District via Facebook, X, LinkedIn and Nextdoor.
MAIN IMAGE: This award-winning piece by Amara Gandhi of Patwin Elementary School in Davis earned first place in the 2025 Clean Air Art Contest.
