The annual holiday card tradition has returned to Grants Pass School District 7, and with it comes an opportunity for the entire community to help select this year’s standout student artwork. Now in its sixth year, the districtwide contest showcases the creativity of students from kindergarten through high school, offering a seasonal glimpse into how young artists interpret winter themes through their own imagination and style.
Students from all grade levels participated, submitting designs created with pencil, paint, marker and a variety of other mediums. The district encouraged entries that reflect “the spirit and beauty of the season,” giving students wide artistic freedom to explore winter landscapes, festive colors, and symbols that capture the meaning of the holidays. The result is a collection of vibrant, diverse artwork representing the artistic development of students at different stages of their education.
A total of 24 designs were selected as finalists, divided into categories for grades K through 1, 2 through 3, 4 through 5, 6 through 8 and 9 through 12. In addition to grade-level recognition, students are also competing for the People’s Choice Award, which spans two broader categories: K through 5 and 6 through 12. While most winners are determined by a district-level judging panel, the People’s Choice Award is fully decided by public vote, giving residents the chance to participate directly in celebrating student achievement.
The district’s judging panel includes members of the Board of Education, Superintendent, printshop designers and additional district staff. Their selections determine which designs best represent the excellence and creativity the district aims to highlight. At the same time, the People’s Choice vote reflects broader community tastes and supports the bond between the district and the families it serves. The combination of official and public input ensures that the winning cards reflect both artistic merit and community enthusiasm.
Voting is currently open to anyone who wants to take part. Community members, parents, students and supporters can cast their vote for their favorite card design through November 30, 2025. The district emphasizes that the process is open to all, reinforcing the idea that the holiday card contest is not only a student event but a community tradition that invites widespread participation.
Winners will be announced on Monday, December 1. Once the selections are finalized, the district will offer variety packs featuring the winning cards for a limited purchase window. These packs have become popular among residents who enjoy sending locally inspired cards or collecting a piece of annual student creativity. Additional details about ordering will be available on the district’s website on December 1.
The holiday card contest has grown into a highlight of the winter season for Grants Pass School District 7. What began as a simple way to incorporate student artwork into district communications has evolved into an annual celebration of youth talent, creativity and community involvement. The contest encourages students to explore artistic skills, celebrates the value of arts education and continues to build a tradition that many local families look forward to each year.
As the calendar approaches the holidays, this year’s contest once again demonstrates how art can unite a community. Whether a design features snowy scenes, festive patterns or imaginative interpretations of winter, each card carries a student’s unique expression and a reminder of the joy and creativity that define the season. With voting underway, residents have a chance to support local students, participate in a cherished community activity and help determine which young artists will represent the district in the coming year’s holiday greetings.