Who is eligible to enter?
The 2023-2024 “Teens Off Screens” PSA Video Contest (the "Contest") is only open to students in the following public middle schools in these Pennsylvania and New Jersey school districts: Pennsbury (Charles Boehm, Pennwood, William Penn); Council Rock (Holland, Newtown, Richboro), Neshaminy (Maple Point, Carl Sandbury, Poquessing) and New Hope-Solebury (New Hope Solebury-Middle School); Hamilton Township (Crockett, Grice, Reynolds); Hopewell Valley Regional School District (Timberlane); Trenton (Grace A. Dunn, Dr. MLK Jr. Middle School, Arthur J. Holland Middle School); Ewing (Gilmore Fisher) and Lawrence Township (Lawrence Intermediate, Lawrence Middle School).
There is no limit to the number of submissions; however, only one prize will be awarded per category. Schools CAN win more than category. Employees of Capital Health, as well as the immediate family (spouse, parents, siblings, children, step-children and grandchildren) and household members of Capital Health employees, are not eligible to enter the Contest.
Can a school submit more than one entry?
Yes, we encourage it! The more submissions, the greater your school’s odds of winning. There is no limit to the number of submissions as a school can win more than one category.
Are outside organizations, charter or private schools, youth groups, churches etc., eligible to participate?
Only middle school students who attend the schools listed above are eligible to enter and win.
What are some tips for students making the video?
Submissions will be judged on originality, positive messaging, creativity and impact. Videos should address various aspects of excessive screen time. The video can include personal stories, statistics, and creative storytelling to engage the audience. The primary objective of this campaign is to inspire and motivate students to create an impactful video that raises awareness about the dangers of spending too much time in front of screens, while also promoting healthier alternatives and digital mindfulness. Inappropriate language will result in disqualification. Use of copyrighted content is prohibited. It’s suggested that students search for royalty-free music, photos, etc., to ensure compliance.
For ideas and inspiration, visit capitalhealth.org/healthystudents to watch previous winning videos from our 2022-2023 Anti-Vaping campaign.
What are the prize categories and amounts?
We will be selecting one winner in each of the following categories:
- Most Impactful: $2,000
- Most Creative and Original: $2,000
- Best Use of Messaging: $2,000
- Honorable Mention: $2,000
How long should the video be?
Videos can be anywhere from 30 – 60 seconds long, but no longer.
Can students work in groups? Is there a limit to the number of students in a group?
Yes, students can work in groups or individually. There is no limit to the number of students in a group. Videos must be made entirely by students, either individually or as a team.
What if I run out of room for the online submission form to enter all of the students’ names?
If your school’s video is chosen as one of the winners, we will reach out to confirm the names of ALL of the students who were involved to ensure they receive proper credit and recognition. For now, please type in as many names as the form allows. The most important information we need is the teacher’s phone number and email.
When and how will the winners be announced?
Winners will be selected by an independent panel of judges chosen by Capital Health. After the 3/1/2024 deadline has passed, our panel will carefully review all the submissions we receive. After we have chosen our four winners, we will contact each winning school no later than 3/15/24. After such time, we will then announce all of the winners on our website and will contact the winning schools individually.
Can I use music and photos?
Yes, but be sure they are royalty-free and are not copyrighted material.
What can the prize money be used for?
Prizes are to be awarded to a school’s PTO/PTA to decide how to spend the money.
If our school is awarded one of the prizes, can you help us with showcasing the winner?
Unfortunately, due to scheduling and meeting space constraints, we are not able to hold a reception here at Capital Health. Plus, we believe that students would be much more excited to be publicly recognized at their school and in front of their teachers and peers. We would be more than happy to come to your school to present an award certificate for each student. If this sounds like something your school would like to do, we kindly ask for a minimum of 2-3 weeks notice so we have enough time to work out the details with your school regarding a date/time that works for everyone.
Can a school win more than one prize or category?
While we can only award one prize per category, a school can win in more than one category.
Will the deadline of 3/1/2024 be extended?
No, all submissions MUST be received by midnight, March 1, 2024. Capital Health is not responsible for any technical issues regarding submissions, so we strongly encourage entries be received before the deadline.
How do you accept submissions?
All submissions must go through the official on-line entry form at capitalhealth.org/healthystudents.
Where can I find more information?
Please visit our campaign website for the entry form, flyer, and complete official contest rules.
For questions or additional information, please contact Rebecca Kelly, Director of Strategic Partnerships, at [email protected].