Carlsbad commission highlights third-grade art contest to teach local history; awards tentatively set for May 20

The Carlsbad Historic Preservation Commission received an informational presentation on its annual third-grade art contest on March 25, 2025. Staff said the contest introduces students to local historic sites through art and connects the commission's preservation work with community education.

Mike Strong, historic preservation staff, told the commission that a call-for-art letter was sent on Feb. 28 and that schools must notify the city of their participation by March 15. Strong said the contest typically attracts six to seven participating schools and that at least two schools had already indicated participation. "We typically have, 6 to 7 participating schools, each year," Strong said.

Strong described the schedule: artwork will be displayed at City Hall on the date of the awards presentation, which is tentatively scheduled for May 20; after the awards the artwork will be posted at the Cole Library through Labor Day. The awards presentation will include a proclamation, certificates for each student, and a small gift, and staff said commissioners may be asked to attend and help present certificates.

Commissioners welcomed the outreach and encouraged participation. Commissioner Schreiber said last year's event was "really fun" and encouraged fellow commissioners to attend where possible. No public speakers addressed the item at the meeting.

Staff said more details on enrollment numbers and presentation logistics will be provided at a future meeting. The item was informational and did not require formal action.