2026-2027 “Be Reel!” Video Contest Rules and Guidelines!

🏆 CREATE. COMPETE. WIN!

 YOUR VIDEO. YOUR TALENT. YOUR CHANCE TO WIN BIG!

Think you’ve got what it takes to make an awesome video? Put your creativity to the test, show off your filmmaking skills, and compete for Amazon Gift Cards!

2026-2027 “Be Reel!” Video Contest Rules and Guidelines (Revised with changes and additions. Please read thoroughly!)

Please read the entire instructions carefully. NEW GUIDELINES AND RULES ARE IN PLACE!

Video Submission Due Date: Friday, March 5, 2027 by 4:00 P.M. uploaded to: HIGHTAIL LINK: Released on December 11, 2026.

Please sign up through this PRE-ENTRY LINK WHICH REQUESTS A VALID EMAIL FOR VIDEO RELEASE DOCUMENT RECEIPT. Thank you!

If you’re submitting for yourself or on behalf of a student as an advisor, please use an external email address to ensure we can reach you in case of any questions.

🎬 STREET SMARTS PRESENTS: THE “BE REEL” VIDEO CONTEST!

THEME: SAFETY FIRST! ONE SECOND CAN CHANGE EVERYTHING!

Got a camera? Got an idea? Got something to say? Lights. Camera. SAFETY!

Your creativity. Your story. Your chance to make an impact!

Think you can create a video that inspires others, sparks conversations, and makes a real difference in keeping your community safe? Now’s your chance to show us what you’ve got!
The Street Smarts “Be Reel!” Video Contest challenges San Ramon Valley middle and high school students to create an informative 60–90-second public service announcement (PSA) about traffic safety.
  • But this isn’t about making another boring safety video. Think short film, comedy sketch, action scene, animation (including stop motion), movie trailer, mockumentary, music video, or even a plot twist nobody sees coming!
  • Use your imagination, show off your filmmaking skills, experiment with special effects, and YES… YOU CAN USE SPECIAL EFFECTS IN YOUR VIDEO!
  • Whether you’re a future filmmaker, content creator, editor, animator, or just someone with a great idea, this is your opportunity to turn creativity into something that matters.
  • Make your friends stop scrolling. Make your community think. Make every second count!

The Street Smarts “Be Reel” Video Contest gives San Ramon Valley students the opportunity to showcase their knowledge of traffic safety by producing public service announcements (PSAs) that educate their friends, family, and community. As a component of the Street Smarts Program, the video contest aims to raise awareness about traffic safety issues to both the students participating in the contest and those who view their work.

Middle school and high school students are eligible to participate, with a separate contest for each grade level: Grades 6 – 8 and Grades 9 – 12. Entries will be judged and awarded separately.

Middle school and high school students can work together; however their entry will be judged in the high school category. Participants can be individuals or a group of up to four students and win prizes by creating a 60 to 75 second PSA on this year’s Video Contest Theme:

Safety First!  One Second Can Change Everything! 

Focus on safety education by highlighting the correct actions to take, rather than emphasizing what not to do!  This positive approach can foster a more proactive mindset and empower individuals to make safer choices.

🎥 CHOOSE YOUR STORYLINE – Pick ONE of the topics below and bring it to life. The possibilities are endless!

🚲 1. E-BIKES: RIDE SMART. RIDE RESPONSIBLY: E-bikes are changing the way students get around, but knowing how to ride safely is essential! Show how riders can protect themselves and others by wearing helmets, understanding the rules, controlling their speed, watching for pedestrians, riding predictably, and using designated riding areas when required. Demonstrate how responsible riding makes the roads and pathways safer for everyone.

🚶 2. PEDESTRIAN SAFETY: MAKE EVERY STEP COUNT: Crosswalks aren’t optional! Show how stopping, looking both ways, staying alert, and using designated crosswalks can help pedestrians get where they’re going safely.

🚦 3. ROAD AWARENESS: BE AWARE OF YOUR SURROUNDINGS: Turning cars, driveways, intersections, parking lots … there’s a lot happening on the road! Show how paying attention, anticipating traffic, and making smart moves can keep you safe.

⚠️ 4. SPEEDING & RECKLESS RIDING: SLOW DOWN TO STAY SAFE ON TRAILS: Fast isn’t always better! Show how slowing down, riding predictably, respecting pedestrians, and following traffic rules, especially on trails, protects everyone.

🪖 5. HELMET SAFETY: ONE SECOND THAT MATTERS: To helmet or not to helmet? That’s not even a question! Create a video showing why wearing a properly fitted and fastened helmet before every ride is one of the smartest decisions you can make.

👀 6. BE SEEN. BE SAFE: Don’t assume drivers can see you! Show how lights, reflectors, bright clothing, eye contact when possible, and predictable movements can help people stay visible and safe, especially at dusk and in low-light conditions.

IMPORTANT: For all topics, helmets must be used and properly fitted, strapped, and snapped. Videos will be deducted points if the helmet is not strapped properly. Please view a new instructional helmet fitting video: 2-V-1 Rule Helmet Fitting Video.

Think smart. Act safe. Protect yourself and others! 

EXCITING Prizes! (Divided by up to 4 team members)

🎓 HIGH SCHOOL DIVISION (GRADES 9–12)

🥇 1st Place: $300 in Amazon Gift Cards

🥈 2nd Place: $200 in Amazon Gift Cards

🥉 3rd Place: $100 in Amazon Gift Cards

 

🎒 MIDDLE SCHOOL DIVISION (GRADES 6–8)

🥇 1st Place: $300 in Amazon Gift Cards

🥈 2nd Place: $200 in Amazon Gift Cards

🥉 3rd Place: $100 in Amazon Gift Cards

All students, parents, and school administrators are invited to attend the Street Smarts “Be Reel!” Video Contest Awards Ceremony, (April 12, 2027) where finalists, winners, and prizes will be announced and presented by local elected officials. 

WHAT ARE THE JUDGES LOOKING FOR?
All videos will be reviewed by the Street Smarts Program Advisory Committee to select the top qualifying videos, who will advance to the next round of judging by video production professionals.

EACH VIDEO WILL BE EVALUATED BASED ON:

  • Message and impact: Is the safety lesson clear and memorable?
  • Creativity and originality: Does the video offer a fresh approach?
  • Storytelling: Does it capture attention and communicate effectively?
  • Relevance: Does it reflect real situations students face?
  • Production and teamwork: Are the visuals, sound, and editing effective?

WHAT ARE THE VIDEO REQUIREMENTS?
Submitted videos must be within the following guidelines:

  • Length: 60 – 75 seconds maximum length
  • Size: Compressed exported video should not exceed 100MB
  • Quality: High Definition (720p)
  • Format: MP4 or WMV format
  • Audio: Dialogue should be understandable and clear. The sound in all shots should have the same volume throughout video.
  • List the members of the video production team in a “Credits” section at the end of the video.
  • Feature the Street Smarts logo at the beginning and/or prominently throughout the video (available at Street Smarts Logo).
  • Use a creative Video Title and NOT “Street Smarts” or the Theme Name: “SAFETY FIRST”.
  • No use of copyrighted material is allowed, including background music or graphics. (See below: What types of music can I use? for clarification).
  • Videos must not contain inappropriate or explicit images nor the use of profanity.
  • List the Street Smarts Program public partners in the video credits (see below).

City of San Ramon
Town of Danville
County of Contra Costa Districts 2 and 3
San Ramon Valley Unified School District
San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District

WHAT ARE THE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS? (Also review Do’s and Don’ts below)

  • Fill out FILL-IN PDF FORM online, print and submit ONE ENTRY FORM per video and ONE RELEASE FORM FOR EACH PARTICIPANT.
  • While there are no limitations on the number of people who can participate in the video, only the students on record as the official video production team members (1 to 4) will be eligible to receive prizes. One entry per team or individual.
  • Each student participating in the contest must be listed on the official Entry Form and have a separate Release Form.
  • Find a Video Advisor (parent, or teacher) who is 18 years or older, and list this person on the Entry Form.
  • Entry needs to be original and not submitted in prior year’s contest.
  • A completed Release Form is required for:
    • Each student under 18 who is involved in the production of the submitted video; and other children under 18 who appear in the submitted video; and
    • A parent signature is required on all Release Forms or the video submission will not be considered for contest.
    • SUBMIT ALL ATTACHMENTS (Release Forms and Entry Form) TOGETHER AND ONLY ONE TIME. DO NOT SEND SEPARATELY!
    • LABEL ALL FORMS! Exported video should be saved with the VIDEO TITLE that matches the Entry Form and Release Forms. Entries that are labeled incorrectly may receive a deduction of points. Example of Video Labeled “Crossing Corners”
    • Video Upload Name on attachment: “Crossing Corners”
      • Forms/releases with Video Name: “Crossing Corners Entry Form”
      • Release Form with Video Name and Student Last Name: “Crossing Corners – Smith”
      • It is the STUDENT’S responsibility to make sure the forms and video entry are labeled correctly.

    WHO CAN ENTER?
    Any middle school student (grades 6-8) and/or high school student (grades 9-12) attending a public or private school within the San Ramon Valley Unified School District (SRVUSD) boundaries, or who is a resident within the SRVUSD boundaries, can enter the contest. Contest participants are not required to attend a SRVUSD school to be eligible to enter.

     HOW DO I ENTER?

      1. Be sure to read the full “Rules and Guidelines” (this document!).
      2. Sign up through this PRE-ENTRY LINK to help Street Smarts estimate the number of entries and determine the prizes. (The information submitted can be changed and is not final.)
      3. Choose one of the listed TOPICS above.
      4. Download and complete the ENTRY FORM AND RELEASE – SENT TO EMAIL REGISTERED ON PRE-ENTRY LINK.
      5. Upload the completed forms, with the name of the video AFTER JANUARY 8, 2027.

    Please do not email the videos. UPLOAD ALL FORMS AND VIDEO to the Hightail link saved with the video name according to the video requirements listed above.

    Visit Video Contest Top Winners to view past year’s finalists and top placed videos!

    Do’s:

    • Choose a Topic: Create a public service announcement (PSA) based on one of the topics listed above to promote traffic safety.
    • Speak Clearly: Speak at a steady, easy-to-understand pace.
    • Minimize Background Noise: Keep music and other sounds low enough to ensure dialogue is clearly heard.
    • Use Readable Text: Ensure on-screen text is large, clear, and easy to read. Closed captioning (CC) is encouraged.
    • Cite sources if using statistics: If your video includes statistics, research findings, or specific safety claims, you must cite your sources. Make sure your information comes from a credible, reliable source. Accuracy matters!
    • Be Creative: Use engaging settings, scenarios, and humor to capture your audience’s attention.Dont’s:
      • Don’t use your school email address when registering. We need a valid email to contact you if we have questions about your submission or to notify you if your video is selected as a finalist. Don’t miss out on important contest updates!
      • Don’t use Copyrighted Material Without Compliance: Do not use copyrighted material, including music, unless you comply with applicable laws. Refer to “What Types of Music Can I Use?” for guidance.
      • Don’t include Death or Violence: Do not include images or references to death or violence.
      • Don’t include Minors Without a Release: Do not feature anyone under 18 unless a completed Release Form has been obtained.
      • Don’t film on Private Property Without Permission: Do not film on private property without the property owner’s permission.
      • Don’t endanger Others: Do not put production team members or the public at imminent risk during filming.
      • Don’t include Obscene or Indecent Content: Do not include obscene or indecent material.
      • Don’t include Defamatory Content: Do not include libelous, slanderous, or otherwise defamatory material.

      If this video is produced within the structure of an organization or a class, do not violate any additional rules, operating policies or procedures (which may be more stringent than the limitations described above) so long as these rules, operating policies or procedures are in compliance with applicable law.

      Street Smarts reserves the right to determine if the rules and guidelines are followed.

      Video Production Tips & Suggestions

      Tips for Shooting Video:

      • Include Buffer Time: Always allow a few extra seconds before and after your footage. This helps avoid abrupt starts or endings in dialogue. If the clips are too long, they can easily be trimmed during editing.
      • Vary Your Shots: Use a mix of camera angles to create drama. For instance, alternating between high shots (looking down) and low shots (looking up) can enhance visual interest. Tight shots often convey sincerity and emphasize key moments.
      • Incorporate Special Effects: Utilize special effects thoughtfully to enhance your video and showcase your creativity and skills.

      Trademark and Copyright FAQ

      What does Copyright mean?
      Copyright grants the creator or owner the exclusive right to reproduce their work. This protection covers the expression of ideas (like videos) but not the ideas themselves. Copyright applies to a variety of works, including:

    • Books and articles
    • Videos and films
    • Music and lyrics
    • Visual art like paintings and photographs

    What is not covered by copyright?
    Names, slogans, short phrases, and factual information typically fall outside copyright protection. However, some may be protected by trademarks.

    What is a Trademark?
    Trademarks distinguish the products of one entity from another. You cannot use trademarks such as logos, product names, or distinctive packaging without permission. This includes:

    • Brand logos (e.g., Nike symbol)
    • Product shapes or designs
    • Business signage

    What types of music can I use?

    • Original music created by you.
    • Generic music included in your video production software.
    • Music with permission from a composer or writer (preferably documented).
    • Downloaded music from online stores like iTunes is NOT permitted.

    What pictures can I use?

    • Original photos taken by you are acceptable, provided they do not include trademarked or copyrighted materials without permission. Obtain consent from individuals in the photos.
    • Stock photos from reputable sources (both paid and free) can be used. Search online for “free stock photos” for options.
    • Photos from publications (like magazines or posters) require permission from the copyright holder, as they are protected works.
    • Original music created by you.
    • Generic music included in your video production software.
    • Music with permission from a composer or writer (preferably documented).
    • Downloaded music from online stores like iTunes is NOT permitted.

    What pictures can I use?

    • Original photos taken by you are acceptable, provided they do not include trademarked or copyrighted materials without permission. Obtain consent from individuals in the photos.
    • Stock photos from reputable sources (both paid and free) can be used. Search online for “free stock photos” for options.
    • Photos from publications (like magazines or posters) require permission from the copyright holder, as they are protected works.

    What is Public Domain?
    Public domain works are not protected by copyright and can be freely used. This status applies when:

    • The copyright term has expired.
    • The work is produced by the government.

    Be cautious: material found online is not automatically in the public domain. You can use factual information, but images, music, and other creative works are often protected.

    What is the Release Form?
    The Release Form allows the Street Smarts Program and its partners (e.g., CTV and CCTV) to use your video for various purposes, including creating compilation videos of winning entries.

    Am I signing away my ownership rights?
    By signing the Release Form, you transfer copyright ownership to the Street Smarts Program and its partners. They can use the video freely, but you retain the right to use it for personal or resume purposes, excluding commercial use.

    More Questions?

    Visit www.street-smarts.com or contact the Street Smarts Coordinator at dpita@sanramon.ca.gov.

    Thank you for participating and supporting San Ramon Valley Street Smarts Programs!