Annual Conflict Resolution Day
Bookmark Art Contest

bookmark contest winner drawing
Jonathan Brooks, grades 3-5 Third Place Winner, 5th grade, Vansville Elementary School, Prince George’s County, 2023

The Maryland Judiciary’s Mediation and Conflict Resolution Office (MACRO) observes Conflict Resolution Day, the third Thursday in October, by hosting a bookmark design contest for Maryland students in grades K-8. The contest provides teachers, parents, and students the opportunity to learn about and share important conflict resolution skills, such as listening; working together to solve problems; talking to each other instead of fighting or bullying; being inclusive; and appreciating and respecting differences. This is a wonderful opportunity for students to use their artistic skills to illustrate their own creative ideas.

The contest includes three age groups: kindergarten through second grade, third through fifth grade, and sixth through eighth grade. Entries are judged on both artistic merit and their peaceful conflict resolution messages. The contest has grown since it began in 2005 with fewer than 40 entries, to nearly 4,000 submissions from students all across Maryland.

Watch a Video
Watch this short video showcasing a Scotchtown Hills Elementary class’s experience with the contest as described by Renee Cort-Sutton, a school counselor.
Watch a short video on the bookmark contest

Interested in participating?
MACRO encourages schools, families, and community organizations serving youth to participate. If you would like to learn more about this contest or be placed on the list to receive annual email notices, please send your contact information to [email protected].

A limited number of printed bookmarks are available to schools, libraries, and other organizations throughout the state. If you would like copies to distribute in your community, organization, school, or workplace, please make a request at [email protected]. Copies are available while supplies last.

See past contest winners.