THE JACKSON HOUSE FOUNDATION
HIGH SCHOOL VIDEO CONTEST

Welcome to the Jackson House Foundation's High School Video Contest (in collaboration with Dr. Martin Luther King Parade Foundation,Inc and Connecx Multimedia,LLC). Our contest is a showcase of creativity, talent, and historic storytelling. This event brings together aspiring filmmakers from across Hillsborough County Public Schools District to present their unique visions and narratives. This is more than just a competition—it's an opportunity to dive deep into Tampa’s Heritage and students tell the story, their way. Each entry reflects the passion and artistic expression of our young creators. Join us in supporting our filmmakers as they create and share these historic stories with us.

CONTEST RULES AND REQUIREMENTS

Entries may be produced by Individuals, Groups, or Classes.
All entries can be a max of 5 minutes.
All entries must be by a HCPS student, written and produced in their entirety.
All entries should be rated PG-13 or less.
The use of copyright material is prohibited, unless you have proof from the copyright holder granting permission for use.

SUBJECT MATTER (THEME):
All video Shorts must contain at least 1 of these 3 references:
1. Martin Luther King Jr. In Tampa
2. 1 of the celebrities listed as staying at Tampa’s Jackson (Rooming) House (visit JHF website)
3. About the Restoration efforts of the Jackson House Foundation, Inc.

SUBMISSION GUIDELINES
Categories:

Animated
A short story using two dimensional or three dimensional characters created on film or computer; includes animation using clay, objects, or models.
Comedy
Tells a humorous story; may incorporate comedic elements such as misunderstandings or satire.
Documentary
A film that provides a view of real life people, trends, or events. The story should include interviews to drive the plot.
Drama/Suspense
Tells a story that conveys emotion in a creative way.
Music Video
Video pictures (still or live action) set to music, with or without lip synching. (must adhere to copyright law)


Each entry must complete the online submission form
A 15 second excerpt must be submitted to be played at the GALA’s awards showcase.
A $10 entry fee is required for each video entry.
No entry can be submitted for multiple categories.
Schools may submit a maximum of 2 videos per category.
1 min of Behind The Scenes (BTS) Footage must be submitted.

VIDEO ENTRIES ARE DUE NO LATER THAN 11:59PM ON NOVEMBER 10, 2025
Winners will be selected by a panel of judges. (TBA)

JUDGING CRITERIA:
1. Interpretation and clarity of the theme.
2. Creativity and originality
3. Quality of artistic composition based on theme
4. Overall impression.

Winners, Debut your Film Making Talent during the
2026 Dr. Martin Luther King Parade Foundation Gala January 8th.

PRIZES:

GRAND PRIZE $500 Cash Prize
Individual Category Winners will Receive a Swag Bag valued at $250


ENTER CONTEST COMPLETE SUBMISSION FORM