Some Okaloosa County 5th grade art students were all smiles as they waited to hear their names announced in front of the packed School Board room. The recognition came from Okaloosa County Tax Collector Ben Anderson as he presented the Kids Tag Art Award of Distinction winners, two each from eleven participating schools. Principals of the participating schools were also all smiles when they heard that each of them would be receiving an additional $1000 from Kids Tag Art program sponsors.
The Kids Tag Art program is a partnership with the Tax Collector’s Office and the School District. The program has distributed $46,743 to participating schools since 2013. As an art project, this program gives students a chance to create their own specialty license plate. As a fundraiser, those student created plates can be purchased by parents and the public, and the proceeds from all school sales stay in that school.
Combining in-school sales and local sponsorships, the Kids Tag Art program earned $15,794.00 this year.
Tax Collector Ben Anderson says, “This is non-tax generated revenue and comes at a time when money for art curriculum is hard to find.†He continues, “In the coming weeks we will be delivering $1000 checks to each participating school, double what we delivered last year! This is possible because of the generous support of our sponsors: the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office, Corporate Benefits and AFLAC with Leo Tisa.â€
Statewide, the Kids Tag Art program has surpassed the one-million dollar mark in generating funds for elementary schools. On May 15th, Governor Rick Scott and the Florida Cabinet will recognize Kids Tag Art for such a remarkable achievement. Anderson says, “Because of its success statewide, we hope more local elementary schools get involved so they can have a piece of the Tag Art pie!â€
The Tax Collector’s Choice award is from Shalimar 5th grader, Sara Kapp. Anderson and Kapp are pictured (attachment) placing her winning tag on his vehicle. Anderson said he will have her tag on his vehicle until another winner is announced next year. The following are Award of Distinction winners:
