Since 2014, Manatee County Utilities has invited Manatee County Schools students to participate in the annual FSAWWA "Drop Savers" Poster Contest. Open to K-12 students, the contest encourages creativity in promoting water conservation through slogans, drawings, or both. It’s a fun way to raise awareness and educate the next generation about the importance of saving water.

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Congratulations to Leonardo Margarella, a third-grade student at Rowlett Academy for the Arts and Sciences, for earning third place in the 2026 FSAWWA State Water Conservation Poster Contest!

Representing Division 2 for Manatee County, Leonardo’s colorful and creative artwork stood out at the state level while sharing an important message about protecting and conserving water.

Local County Winners Poster Contest 2026

Division 1 Winners

1st Place: Stella Reeves - Palma Sola Elementary, 1st Grade

2nd Place: Ezekiel Izquierdo - Rowlett Elementary, 1st Grade

3rd Place: Tessa Trotter - Johnson K8, 1st Grade

Division 2 Winners

1st Place: Leonardo Margarella - Rowlett Elementary, 3rd Grade

2nd Place: Saylor Shelton - Palma Sola Elementary, 3rd Grade

3rd Place: Kailynn Gibson - Johnson K8, 2nd Grade

Division 3 Winners

1st Place: Emiliana Bonilla - Rowlett Elementary, 4th Grade

2nd Place: Jayceona Williams - Johnson K8, 4th Grade

3rd Place: Tylei Griggs - Johnson K8, 4th Grade

Division 4 Winners

1st Place: Alina Lerma - Rowlett Middle, 6th Grade

2nd Place: Abigail Cooper - Rowlett Middle, 6th Grade

3rd Place: Eliza Perez - Rowlett Middle, 6th Grade

3rd Place: Isabella Rodriquez - Rowlett Middle, 6th Grade

The competition was tough, with so many fantastic submissions. A huge thank you to the teachers and staff for supporting their students, and to Manatee County staff for casting their votes—every vote matters!

First-place winners advance to the FSAWWA State Drop Savers Poster Contest—good luck, Manatee County students! We’re cheering for you!

Want to get involved next year? Email [email protected] for details.