Student video contest deadline nears
Feb. 21 is the entry deadline for the 2016 Speak Truth to Power video contest sponsored by the American Federation of Teachers, Tribeca Film Institute and RFK Center for Justice and Human Rights. Based on Kerry Kennedy's book Speak Truth To Power, the competition for middle and high school students focuses on human rights defenders whose stories are told in three- to five-minute videos. Creative storytelling is emphasized to teach others about a human rights issue that the defender has championed. The format is open to documentary, stop motion, narrative, digital photo essay or other filmmaking techniques. Visit www.speak truthvideo.com.
Mini-grants honor artist's 100th
The Ezra Jack Keats Foundation, a funding program for educators in public schools and public libraries, is calling for all mini-grant proposals submitted through March 2016 to have a Keats theme in honor of his 100th birthday.
"Every program, from puppet shows to science projects, should be informed by one or more aspects of Keats' books, art, life and vision," the foundation reports. "Public education is one of the greatest legacies of our country, one that benefits children from every walk of life. Public school gave Keats the encouragement to pursue his vocation as an artist. The public library was a haven that introduced him to the wonders of art history. Awards of up to $500 for a special program or project will be given to "educators, whose efforts are often inadequately funded or recognized ..." The organization has awarded $850,000 since 1987. Go to www.ezra-jack-keats.org.