The Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT), in collaboration with We Are Teachers, a national educational media organization, has launched a new statewide video contest to engage students in the battle against distracted driving.
GDOT’s Every Second Counts Video Contest invites Georgia residents between the ages of 13 to 18, as of Aug. 1, 2025, and currently enrolled in public, private, or home school programs in Georgia, to create a short, impactful public service announcement emphasizing how even a few seconds of distraction behind the wheel can lead to dangerous or deadly consequences.
The campaign is intended to empower students to speak directly to their peers and community through creative storytelling and video production.
“We know that young people can be some of the most powerful advocates for change,” GDOT Commissioner Russell R. McMurry said. “This contest gives them the tools and the platform to raise awareness and make a real difference in how their friends and families think about driving.
“We’re so pleased that Keep Georgia Safe has been embraced by teachers, students, and parents across the state and we’re excited to see the creativity of Georgia’s students in helping spread the word about the dangers of distracted driving.”
Students are encouraged to submit their videos by June 8 through the official contest webpage at weareteachers. com/hub/ every-second-counts-video- contest.
To help students create strong entries, GDOT and We Are Teachers have developed a Contest Toolkit, which includes a tip sheet for crafting a compelling message, a blank storyboard to plan out ideas, and a fact sheet with distracted driving statistics.
The contest is part of the broader Keep Georgia Safe program, launched last year to bring road safety education to K–12 classrooms across Georgia. Through interactive games, lesson plans, virtual field trips, and printable resources, the program is helping build a culture of safety for the next generation.
“This is a meaningful opportunity for students to get involved in something that directly impacts their lives,” We Are Teachers Editorial Director Hannah Hudson said. “We’re excited to see their creativity and passion shine through in the entries.”
Winning videos will not only be showcased on the GDOT website but will also be utilized in future outreach initiatives. Additionally, $500 to $300 gift card prizes will be awarded for first through third-place entries, plus $250 gift cards to five honorable mention winners.
Additionally, one teacher will receive a $500 gift card in a drawing after sharing the program with their students.
— Contributed