Submissions Open for 2025 Law Enforcement Appreciation Poster Contest

HELENA – Submissions are now open for the 2025 Montana Law Enforcement Appreciation Poster Contest, announced Attorney General Austin Knudsen. This fourth annual poster contest invites elementary school students across Montana to submit artwork that reflects their appreciation for law enforcement officers in the state.

The initiative is a collaboration between the Attorney General’s Office, the Montana Highway Patrol (MHP), and Stockman Bank, aimed at promoting public service and fostering respect for law enforcement among Montana’s youth, while also allowing children to express their artistic talents.

Attorney General Knudsen remarked, “This contest is a great way for Montana’s elementary school students to show their respect and appreciation for law enforcement officers across the state. In Montana, we back the blue, and it’s important to instill that principle in children at a young age. That’s why we started this contest. I encourage every eligible student to participate.”

MHP Colonel Kurt Sager added, “At the Highway Patrol, we look forward to working with Attorney General Knudsen on this poster contest every year. It’s a great opportunity for us to connect with students on what it means to be a law enforcement officer. The showing of support also means a lot to our troopers.”

Bill Coffee, CEO of Stockman Bank, stated, “We are excited to be a part of this program recognizing the work of law enforcement across our state and giving our youth the opportunity to share their creativity.”

One winner will be selected from each of the seven Montana Highway Patrol districts. Each winning class will receive $250 from Stockman Bank, along with an ice cream social hosted by MHP troopers. From these seven district winners, a statewide winner will be chosen and awarded an additional $500 from Stockman Bank, a visit from Attorney General Knudsen, and a chance for a ride along with MHP Colonel Sager. The winning poster will be displayed in Montana Department of Justice offices throughout the state.

Contest rules:

1. Applicants must be in elementary school.
2. Artwork should reflect why the student appreciates law enforcement.
3. Digitally produced artwork is not allowed. Submissions should use acrylics, watercolors, pencils, charcoal, markers, crayons, pastels, or other traditional mediums.
4. The preferred poster size is 8.5 x 14 inches. Submissions in 8.5×11 and 11×17 sizes will also be accepted.
5. Participants must include a brief biography and a completed application with their submission.

Applications should include the original artwork, contest application, and release form and must be mailed to the Attorney General’s Office, Law Enforcement Poster Contest, 215 N. Sanders, Helena, MT 59601.

To download the application, click here.