Encourage Creativity and Prevention: Middle Schoolers Invited to Join the 2024-2025 PSA Challenge

Parents and teachers - are you looking for a meaningful way to engage middle school students in a creative and educational project? PDFNJ invites 5th through 8th graders across the state to participate in the 2024-2025 Middle School PSA Challenge.

This contest encourages students to create a 30-second public service announcement (PSA) focused on the dangers of substance use. Not only does it provide an opportunity for students to showcase their creativity, but it also empowers them to become peer leaders in promoting healthy choices. When young people communicate directly with their peers, their message resonates in a way that is both relatable and impactful. This challenge gives students a unique platform to use their voices to inspire others while developing leadership and media production skills.

Last year, Quitman Street School in Newark students won for their compelling PSA, which encouraged young people to reject harmful substances and adopt a healthy lifestyle. This year, a new group of middle schoolers will be able to make an impact. In addition to gaining valuable experience, participants will also have a chance to win a $1,000 prize, and winning PSAs will be shared on social media, amplifying their message across the state.

Submissions will be judged on message, peer relatability, and production quality, and the entry deadline is March 28, 2025. This is a fantastic opportunity for students to be creative, learn new skills, and take a stand against substance use in their communities.

For more details and to view past winning PSAs, visit drugfreenj.org/mspsa