Initially an essay contest, Councilmember Rice partnered last year with Montgomery County Public Schools and Montgomery College to enhance the program by incorporating afterschool virtual instruction on digital storytelling. Open to students in eighth through twelfth grades, each participant will be provided with a loaner iPad and mentored by a trained instructor on inclusive storytelling through digital journalism. The culminating project for students is a video on a public policy issue from whom a winning video will be selected. The winner will be the guest of honor at a Council breakfast, receive a Council proclamation, serve as an honorary Councilmember for a Day, and receive prizes to enable their continued digital storytelling.
Last year, Allison Fan submitted the winning video which advocated for more comprehensive education on eating disorders. Through her engaging visuals and relaying her personal message regarding her own challenges, the video provided important information about eating disorders afflicting our youth.