Nearly 300 fourth graders from across Fallbrook participated in the Fallbrook Public Utility District’s (FPUD) annual water conservation poster contest, showcasing their creativity to promote the importance of saving water. Fourteen exceptional students earned a spot in the 2025 “Be Water Smart” calendar, a key tool for raising water awareness in the community.
The calendar features 12 winning posters—one for each month—plus a cover image and a bonus poster for January 2026. These vibrant and colorful illustrations reflect the contest’s theme, emphasizing water conservation in San Diego County’s semi-arid climate.
The calendars are available for free at local businesses, including Albertsons, Major Market, Northgate Market, Grocery Outlet, the FPUD office, and the Fallbrook Chamber of Commerce, while supplies last.
FPUD celebrated the winners at a special board of directors meeting on Dec. 9. Each student received a framed version of their artwork, a gift card to Amazon, and school supplies. Additionally, the top three winners and the cover artist were gifted custom T-shirts featuring their designs.
This year’s top honors went to several talented FUESD students:
- First Place: Sofia Luciano, Maie Ellis Elementary
- Second Place: Jackie Bernier, St. Peter the Apostle Catholic School
- Third Place: Erick Siquina, Fallbrook STEM Academy
- Cover Artist: Alexa Navarro, Maie Ellis Elementary
Other winners from FUESD schools include:
- Fallbrook STEM Academy: Remi Schuessler, Nathalie Maldonado, Natalia Juarez, and Davi Espinoza
- Live Oak Elementary: Charlie Madden, Makena Castro, and Mason Moore-Bagshaw
- Maie Ellis Elementary: Ariel Ramirez and Ariana Gonzalez
The posters were judged on their artistic skill, creativity, and ability to convey the contest’s message. The winning pieces will not only appear in the calendar but also be displayed in FPUD’s boardroom, on their website, and in social media posts throughout the year.
The annual contest encourages FUESD students and others in FPUD’s service area to take an active role in addressing water conservation—a vital issue for our region.