Six local elementary school students are the winners of Santa Maria’s 2026 Water Awareness Poster Contest. Their colorful artwork is featured on the Utilities Department’s social media pages.
At the May 5 City Council meeting, Mayor Alice Patino proclaimed May as Water Awareness Month, and encouraged all Santa Marians to help conserve and protect water resources.
In recognition of Water Awareness Month, third-grade students across the community participated in the city Utilities Department’s annual Water Awareness Poster Contest, with six winners honored at the meeting.
Students, joined by their families and teachers, received trophies and certificates from the Utilities Department, along with prize donations from generous local sponsors.
Third grade winners are:
Brittany Ramirez Preciado, Alvin School — Most Water Aware
Camila Santos, Oakley School — Best Slogan
Diana Iturbide Iturbide, Alvin School — Most Colorful
Jennifer Pineda Nestor, Alvin School — Most Artistic
Kayla Iturbide Ayala, Alvin School — Most Educational
Sofia Vargas, Oakley School — Best Celebration of Water
The Utilities Department extends appreciation to the Santa Maria-Bonita School District for supporting the contest, and to the teachers, school staff, and families who encouraged students’ participation.