SANTA MONICA—Students in the city of Santa Monica entered a “Safety Begins With Me” poster contest and the winners of that contest have been selected. According to a press release from the Santa Monica Police Department, students in grades fourth through eighth who attend school in Santa Monica were eligible to enter the contest.

Students were asked to use art to show what they have learned about train safety as the new Metro Expo Line is set to open on May 20. Prizes were donated by Pacific Park, Santa Monica Pier and Blick Art Supplies.

The SMPD along with the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority and Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District have congratulated the winners of the contest.

4th-5th grade category:

-1st place: Quentin Corbal from McKinley Elementary, teacher Mrs. Cervantes.

-Runner-up: Issac Feinberg from Grant Elementary, teacher Mrs. Ware.

6th-8th grade category:

-1st place: Emilia Scott from Lincoln Middle School, teacher Mrs. Moe.

-Runner-up: Scarlet Klein from Lincoln Middle School, teacher Mrs. Utzinger.

Emilia Scott’s teacher, Mrs Moe, told Canyon News in an email about Emilia’s winning art work, “I’m really excited for Emilia’s accomplishment for winning the art contest. She is her toughest critic. She is very meticulous and pays attention to detail. Emilia is one of my math students and I love how she incorporates the use of mathematical concepts like proportions, measurements and geometry in her art.”

Canyon News tried to reach Quentin Corbal’s teacher, Mrs. Cervantes, but was unable to get a comment.

Banners of the winning posters will be displayed at the Metro Expo Grand Opening and at the Coast Open Street event. In August, the banners will be displayed at all Santa Monica elementary and middle schools. Posters from all of the participants will be displayed in the lobby of Santa Monica City Hall from June 8 through June 28.

“It’s very simple to stay safe: follow the rules and obey the signs and signals. Everyone needs to be alert at all times and pay attention at rail crossings when walking, biking or driving. It’s important to take responsibility for your own safety and the safety of those around you—Look, Listen, Stay Alive,” said SMPD Chief Jacqueline Seabrooks.