Berlin Middle School sixth-grade student Khalani Gonzalez-Caban has entered her artwork in the New York State Student Design Contest to create the Official NYS Youth Art Month (YAM) 2026 Flag.
“We are so proud of her participation and creative effort in representing her school and community through art,” said Ms. Shannon DeCelle, Berlin Middle High School Art Educator.New York State is proud to offer this exciting opportunity for student artists and art educators across the state. The statewide contest will select one student design to become the official NYS YAM 2026 Flag, which will be prominently displayed at the National Art Education Association (NAEA) Conference in March 2026.
The selected design will represent New York State on a national stage, celebrating the creativity, voice, and vision of young artists while highlighting the vital role of arts education in schools and communities.
This year’s theme, “The World Needs Art,” encourages students to reflect on how art connects people, inspires change, and shapes our shared future. Khalani’s participation reflects the strong commitment to creativity and artistic expression fostered in New York State classrooms.
Educators who submit student designs are also entered into a drawing to receive NYS Youth Art Month swag and giveaways, generously donated by program sponsors.
Design Guidelines
Submitted artwork must:
- Be inspired by the theme “The World Needs Art”
- Incorporate the official Youth Art Month National Logo
- Use color and follow official layout guidelines
The winning artwork will be transformed into the official NYS YAM 2026 Flag and showcased at the national conference, representing the talent and creativity of New York’s students to art educators from across the country.
-Submitted by Ms. Shannon DeCelle
