iN Education, an Ohio-based 501 c(3) NPO, is the parent company of the Battle of the Teal art program. Currently, this program is supported by the generous donations and funding we receive from the community and local foundations. These funds can vary yearly and are essential for our mission. We are grateful to our accountability partners, board members, advisory board members, committee members, staff, volunteers, parents, and everyone who supports our program. Your support makes our work possible.

Mission statements

As a youth development NPO, iN Education guides youth through programs and services that address social-emotional learning, coaching, and mentoring. We teach transferable skills necessary for success in the workforce, provide guidance and resources, encourage continuing education, and highlight the connection between education and individual creativity. We offer career-awareness/training programs and art-focused activities and events, along with our original e-publications on educational topics.

We created the Battle of the Teal platform to serve as an outlet for youth to use their artistic expressions to engage and connect with the community and their peers. Art is a great way to channel emotions and improve social-emotional wellness.

Diversity and inclusion statement

We made it our top mission to offer equal opportunities for education, employment, and positive art and culture expression to all the diverse communities we passionately serve, regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, cultural background, religious beliefs, marital status, age, disability or military status. iN Education’s model is “Empowering Your Journey. Shaping Your Impact. Building Our Future.” We strive to enrich and empower everyone we serve with our educational and art programming and services designed to reflect the true beauty of education and self-actualization.

Competitive Program Environment Statement

Participation in our upcoming Battle of the Teal program and showcase is optional. We want to ensure that you have an enjoyable experience. It’s a significant decision for any emerging visual and/or performing artist. Participating in the showcase empowers you to choose the items that best fit your specific needs and goals. You can choose “your battle” as you complete your online application by selecting all that apply or choosing “All of the above” on the Google form.

• My art submission is to be presented just for fun.
• My art submission is to be published in the Battle of the Teal Yearbook.
• I’d like to receive feedback from the adjudication panel.
• I will accept any prize, award, or experience.
• If I am selected to be “Best in Show,” I will accept a scholarship award.
• I want one entry into the exclusive Battle of the Teal raffle prize.
• I would like to be a part of the Battle of the Teal art network.
• All the above.

Additionally, applicants have an opportunity to answer the following Y/N question: Would you be willing to perform, or exhibit live at our Battle of the Teal showcase, or events or participate in our “up-close and personal” mini-series documentary? (TEAL Art Fest, Battle of the Teal Art Showcase, other exhibits or concerts) *

We want to ensure that applicants are fully prepared for the Battle of the Teal program and the upcoming showcase review process. We aim to provide a positive, educational, and enriching experience for all applicants. Applicants, who chose to receive feedback from the adjudication panel, will receive it after the scoring is complete. All feedback is meant to be constructive and supportive, helping artists to improve their skills. It is important to note that all feedback is intended to be impartial and is based on the expertise and predetermined criteria of the panel members.

The entire showcase process is designed to be enjoyable, educational, supportive, and beneficial for all participating artists.

The Battle of the Teal team, including the Executive Team, Advisory Board, Adjudication Panel, and Art Network (collectively referred to as the “Battle of the Teal Team”), is dedicated to:

• Creating a welcoming and educational environment for all applicants
• Providing tips, tools, and additional resources to assist with the application process.
• Preparing all applicants to receive constructive feedback during the process
• Informing all applicants about the processes, rules, and expectations of the showcase
• Guiding applicants through coaching and mentoring activities related to the program.

Declaration of originality

By entering the Battle of the Teal art showcase, I confirm that all submitted work is my original creation. I understand that iN Education is not liable for any infringement on intellectual property violations caused by me. I understand that I am solely responsible for my actions.

ART SHOWCASE

Art Categories

PERFORMING ARTS EXAMPLES 

Realizing artistic ideas and work through interpretation and presentation. (“National Core Arts Standards” 2014)

• DANCE: Movement, Performance, Choreography, Folkloric
• MUSIC: Vocal Performance, Songwriting, Instrumental Performance, Composition, Choral Performance
• THEATER: Acting, Directing
• MIXED: Storytelling, Mime, Oral History, Spoken Word. 
• OTHER: Forms of original authentic expressions not mentioned above.

Any performing art form(s) deemed as an artistic, age-appropriate, and tasteful form of expression by the applicant. 

VISUAL ARTS EXAMPLES (PRESENTING & PRODUCING)

Interpreting and sharing artistic work AND realizing and presenting artistic ideas and work. (“National Core Arts Standards” 2014)

• PAINTING: Oil, Acrylic, Watercolor
• DRAWING: Pencil, Charcoal, Pen & Ink, Conte, Oil Pastel
• PRINTMAKING: Silk Screen, Etching, Collagraphy, Engraving
• SCULPTURE: Clay, Found Objects, Wire, Assemblage, Ceramics
• MEDIA ARTS: Photography, Graphic Design, Computer Arts, Animation, Filmmaking, Videography
• OTHER: Forms of original authentic expressions not mentioned above.

Any visual art form(s) deemed as an artistic, age-appropriate, and tasteful form of expression by the applicant.

 Showcase Divisions

There are three showcase divisions for both the Visual (including media arts) and Performing art categories. Showcase divisions follow:

• Elementary division (K-K4), 
• Middle division (K5-K8), and
• High division (K9-K12).

Your Privacy

Your privacy is important to us. Any personal information you provide will not be sold to third parties. We may use this information to connect with you for awards/prizes delivery and other relevant communication. Video, audio, or written introductions are allowed to support the social-emotional wellness of all applicants.

If you have any questions, comments, or concerns, connect with us before submitting any information, and let us know how we can be more accommodating.  Email: battleoftheteal@ineducationonline.org

Privacy Policy | youth.gov

Application

Opening and Deadline

K-12 applicants will have the option to submit their artistic expressions beginning on the posted date and ending on the deadline before 11:59 p.m. EST during the respective year. 

General Details

Applicant’s name, contact information, parent/guardian contact details for applicants aged 12 and under (COPPA guidelines, FTC), artist’s statement about the showcase piece, showcase category, and art form.

For Educators completing this application on behalf of their students, assuming they have parental consent and they are following the Ohio guidelines for  Electronic Recording in Academic Settings.

Submission Guidelines

K-12 applicants can submit one application for each category (visual, performing, or both).  

1. Elementary (K-K4) and Middle (K5-K8) division applicants are to submit only one showcase entry file. 
2. High-division applicants (K9-K12) may choose to upload additional portfolio pieces along with their showcase pieces. Must identify which one is the showcase piece and which uploads are additional portfolio pieces. The total number of files should not exceed five uploads. 
3. Applicants can apply as an individual or as a group. If you are applying as a group:
   1. Ensure all members have parental/guardian consent and adhere to state and federal regulations. 
   2. Complete the “Tell us about your showcase piece and its significance to you” section, and identify all group members and their contributions.

Upload at least one completed showcase piece, either visual (high-resolution image or media arts) or performance art (captured on high-quality video or audio).

Any artistic expression that meets the above-described criteria produced within the last twelve months is allowed.

Award Acceptance

Since each applicant has different needs, wants, desires, or reason(s) for participating in the showcase, we wish to empower them to select their reasons. The ability to choose from the options could mean the world to an applicant who may put added stress on showcasing to another level. Options range from simply showcasing for fun to receiving prizes or awards. As an organization, we are mindful of each applicant’s feelings and their social-emotional and mental health and wellness.

Live Events

Applicants who opt-in on the showcase application “Would you be willing to perform, or exhibit live at our Battle of the Teal showcase, events or participate in our “up-close and personal” mini-series documentary? (TEAL Art Fest, Battle of the Teal Art Showcase, other exhibits or concerts) ” may be notified about the opportunities to perform or exhibit live during one or more of our upcoming events (pre-shows and showcase award ceremonies).

Applicants may also be invited to attend or participate in festivals, concerts, or other iN Education events. Details of the opportunity will be provided. Applicants can choose to accept or decline volunteer or gig work opportunities.

Ownership and license (video law)

Ownership of any submission shall remain the property of the applicant. However, entry into this program constitutes the applicant’s irrevocable permission and consent that iN Education and affiliates may display, copy, reproduce, enhance, print, sublicense, publish, distribute, and create derivative works for iN Education’s purposes, including posting images to social media profiles and web pages. The iN Education is not responsible for lost or damaged entries. Submission of entry into the Battle of the Teal art showcase(s) constitutes acceptance of all rules and conditions.

Constructive Feedback

Those who requested to receive feedback from the adjudication panel or other reviewers will receive their comments post-showcase. Their feedback may be subjective and should not be seen as a reflection of your abilities or creativity. Each person has a unique perspective, and opinions can differ from one individual to another. It is essential to keep expressing yourself through your chosen art form(s) and to continue being creative. Your journey as a creator is unique, and we encourage you to stay true to your vision and passion. 

The Battle of the Teal team is always here to support you, so please feel free to reach out and share your experience with us. Your growth and development as an artist are paramount, and we are committed to helping you flourish in your creative endeavors.

Scoring

Scorecard rubrics (1-4 scale)

Annual Showcase – Adjudication Panel

Art industry professionals from across Northeast Ohio and beyond are nominated to join the adjudication panel each season. To be selected, they must actively practice their art form and accept the responsibility of providing valuable feedback to showcase applicants without bias.

Visual Arts: 1. Technical use of material/craftsmanship, 2. Meaning/ Context, 3. Creativity/ Originality, 4. Composition/Design

Performing Arts: 1. Preparation and preparedness, 2. Expression, characterization, and technique; 3. Appearance, presentation, and comfort level in front of the camera; 4. Creativity, originality, and energy.

Other Showcases (1-4 scale)

Requested or newly-created showcases implemented anytime during the year 

iN Education will accept requests from authorized representatives from School Districts or community organizations to host its own stand-alone Battle of the Teal showcase. 

Showcase judges – invited community participants/ guests – will be scoring one or all showcase applicants on a scale from 1 to 4, with four being the best.

Reporting

Our advisory board members play a role in auditing and validating the results.

Showcase Awards

Award Categories

The division winners are eligible for awards in five categories: continuing education scholarships, cash, tangible goods prizes, iN Education-hosted experiences or services, and community-donated experiences, goods, and services. Please note that we may add other special prizes to make the competition even more exciting or remove any of the prize categories at any time. Any changes or additional prizes will be announced through social media, the program website, email notifications, or newsletters.

Showcase Winners

“Best in Show”

The top score average received from all divisions and across all visual and performing art categories will be awarded the “Best in Show” title. The “Best in Show” can claim their scholarship award upon successful high school graduation and proof of enrollment into higher education institutions. In the event a student within any division is nominated as “Best in Show” and not graduating within that particular year, their scholarship award will be held at Edward Jones. This third party maintains iN Education’s scholarship account. They will receive a scholarship based on total donations raised towards iN Education’s scholarship fund for that program season. The minimum amount of the scholarship award is $250. The scholarship award will not exceed $2,000 per program season. If a group of artists is awarded “Best in Show,” the scholarship will be split between group members. The “Best in Show” will also enjoy the winnings for 1st place in their division and category: see Division and Category Winner section below. 

In order to receive the scholarship or the “Best in Show,” the applicant must have selected the option to accept the scholarship/Best in Show award during the application process. If the applicant with the highest score did not select that option, the scholarship/Best in Show award will roll over to the next program season “Best in Show” award. 

Further details along with the formal Scholarship Agreement will be shared once the award is accepted. 

Founders’ Pick

The Founder of iN Education, DeAndre Nixon, will choose one artist or a group from all submitted applicants. There are no restrictions on division or category, nor is there any restriction on the score given by the Adjudication Panel. They will receive a cash award (minimum of $100 and maximum of $500) at the sole discretion of the Founder.

Division & category winners

The winner is the highest-scoring applicant in their respective division and art category.

1st Place – all divisions (individuals and groups)

• Receive cash award to go towards anything (minimum of $50 and maximum of $100). The amount is based on our fundraising efforts and community support. 
• Get featured on our Zealousness blog (optional) – see examples Battle of the Teal_FS – iN Education Inc. (ineducationonline.org)
• Receive one complimentary life coaching “Advancing Yourself” session – including personality, passion, and values assessment. Schedule your session within one calendar year.   
• Be displayed on the respective page of the expressions gallery for the respective year Battle of the Teal Online Gallery (myportfolio.com)
• Be acknowledged within the margins of Battle of the Teal’s Yearbook for the current season, if this “battle” option was selected during the application process.

Teal Educator Award

Educators do a lot for our community and play a vital role in the development of youth. They deserve to be recognized for this, so we want to acknowledge and award them. The educator will be nominated and elected by the Battle of the Teal Art Advisory Board members based on their students’ involvement and advocacy of the arts and education among youth.

• Receive cash award to go towards anything (minimum of $50 and maximum of $500). The amount is based on our fundraising efforts and community support. 
• Attend an award ceremony (if applicable) to receive the award. 
• Featured article on Zealousness blog (optional).
• Video testimonial featured on the expressions gallery for the respective year Battle of the Teal Online Gallery (myportfolio.com)
• Invitation to become a Battle of the Teal art network member.
• Complimentary presentation/workshop of your choice from the Battle of the Teal art network.

Raffle prize

Battle of the Teal Showcase Raffle

Each showcase applicant (K-12 student) will have one entry into our exclusive Battle of the Teal Showcase raffle drawing if this “battle” option was selected during the application process. 

The drawing will take place after the application submission deadline and will be announced together with the showcase winners. They will have the option to be featured in our Yearbook and share their testimonial with our constituents. They will also have the opportunity to decline the prize and pass it on to another applicant of their choice.

Selection: We will randomly contact one of the following Battle of the Teal participants who do not have access to applicants’s data to help us with the raffle drawing:

• K-12 applicant
• Educator
• Parent
• Adjudication Panel member
• Sponsor/Supporter
• Advisory Board member
• Corporate Board member

They will be asked to choose a number based on the total application amount in a given program season, i.e. 1 – 100. The raffle will be drawn from the lowest to the highest value of the raffle prize. 

The winners will be contacted via email provided during the application process and must claim their prizes before the beginning of the next program season/school year. Any unclaimed prizes will be forfeited or rolled over to the next program season as a prize if the prize expiration date permits. 

Community Raffle

Anyone can purchase a Community Raffle entry. More details on raffle prizes and payment link will be accessible on the the program website: www.battleoftheteal.org  

The drawing will take place after the official raffle end date. 

Raffle Selection: We will randomly contact one of the following Battle of the Teal participants who do not have access to raffle entry data to help us with the raffle drawing:

• K-12 applicant
• Educator
• Parent
• Adjudication Panel member
• Sponsor/Supporter
• Advisory Board member
• Corporate Board member

The raffle will be drawn from the lowest to the highest value of the raffle prize.