Poster Contest
The Idaho State Police (ISP), in partnership with the U.S. Department of Justice, announces the 42nd Annual National Missing Children’s Day Poster Contest. This is a great opportunity for fifth-grade students across Idaho to showcase their creativity and contribute to the important cause of child safety by creating artwork around the theme: “Bringing Our Missing Children Home.”
National Missing Children’s Day, observed annually on May 25, raises awareness about child abduction and honors those working tirelessly to protect children. This day was established in memory of Etan Patz, a six-year-old boy who went missing in 1979, serving as a poignant reminder of the ongoing need for prevention, education, and advocacy.
“Every child's safety is a community responsibility, and this contest is a powerful way to spotlight the importance of bringing our missing children home. By participating in this contest, students are not just creating art; they are contributing to a vital conversation about safety and prevention in a creative and impactful way.”
This contest is not just for students but also teachers and parents. It offers a chance to engage in meaningful discussions about child safety and the importance of finding and getting missing children home. All state winners will represent their state in the national competition, and the national winner will travel to Washington, D.C., with their teacher and parents to be honored at the National Missing Children’s Day ceremony in May 2025.
Winning Idaho Poster
Cottonwood Fifth Grader Wins Statewide Poster Contest for National Missing Children’s Day
MERIDIAN, Idaho – The Idaho State Police (ISP) proudly announces that 10-year-old Lillia Kaschmitter, a student at Prairie Elementary School in Cottonwood, was selected as the Idaho state winner of the 42nd Annual National Missing Children’s Day Poster Contest.
Lillia’s winning poster, a heartfelt piece that beautifully illustrates hope for missing children, depicts messages of love sent to and returned from missing children. Her inspiring piece serves as a reminder that every missing child is still loved and never forgotten.
“Lillia’s artwork is more than just a poster—it’s a message of love, hope, and awareness,” said Kara Kelley, Idaho Missing Persons Clearinghouse Manager. “Her piece captures the deep emotions surrounding missing children and the unwavering commitment to bringing them home. It represents the Idaho way — community that cares, remembers, and continues searching with love and determination.”
Aside from her artistic talent, Lillia is just like any other 10-year-old. She enjoys sports, fishing, camping, and swimming, with math as her favorite subject in school.
Lillia’s poster symbolizes hope and love and will proudly represent Idaho in the national competition. There, it will compete against entries from all states in America, carrying the spirit of our community. The national winner will be honored in Washington, D.C., during the National Missing Children’s Day ceremony in May.
ISP thanks all students, teachers, and parents who participated in this meaningful contest. Their creativity raised awareness of the importance of child safety and brought our missing children home.
Awards & Recognition
- State Submissions: All participants receive a letter of appreciation for their efforts.
- State Certificates: 1st Place, 2nd Place, and 3rd Place finishers.
- State Winner: Receives an award certificate from the Department of Justice and will represent Idaho in the national competition.
- National Winner: Travels to Washington, D.C., with their teacher and parents for the National Missing Children’s Day ceremony. Their poster will be professionally printed and displayed as a national awareness symbol.