Rochester Hills Sixth-Grader Named National Finalist in 2026 Doodle for Google Contest
On April 16, 2026, Lerui Zheng, an 11-year-old sixth-grader from Rochester Hills, Michigan, was announced as one of five national finalists in Google’s annual Doodle for Google competition. This prestigious contest invites K-12 students across the United States to submit original artwork for the chance to have their design featured on the Google homepage and win substantial educational scholarships.
About the Doodle for Google Competition
Doodle for Google is an annual art competition open to students in kindergarten through 12th grade. Participants create original artwork based on a yearly theme, with submissions judged on artistic merit, creativity, and theme communication. The competition culminates in the selection of state and territory winners, followed by five national finalists. The national winner receives a $55,000 college scholarship, a $50,000 technology package for their school, and the honor of having their artwork displayed on Google’s homepage for a day.
Lerui Zheng’s Achievement
Lerui Zheng, a student at Avondale GATE Middle School in Troy, Michigan, submitted his artwork titled “Turning Brass into Happiness.” This piece was selected as a national finalist, placing him among the top five entries in the country. As a finalist, Lerui is guaranteed a $10,000 college scholarship. Should he win the national title, his scholarship would increase to $55,000, and his school would receive a $50,000 technology grant.
Public Voting and Timeline
The public is invited to vote for their favorite Doodle among the five national finalists. Voting opened following the announcement and remains open through April 29, 2026. The winning Doodle will be featured on the Google homepage on April 28, 2026, as part of a rotating showcase of the finalists’ artwork.
Community Impact and Recognition
Lerui’s achievement has garnered attention from local media outlets, including WDIV ClickOnDetroit and the Detroit Free Press. His success highlights the importance of arts education and encourages other young artists to pursue their creative passions. The Avondale School District has expressed pride in Lerui’s accomplishment, noting it reflects the district’s commitment to fostering student talent in both academic and artistic domains.
How to Support Lerui Zheng
Community members, family, and friends can support Lerui by voting for his Doodle, “Turning Brass into Happiness,” during the public voting period. Votes can be cast through the official Doodle for Google voting portal. Each vote contributes to his chance of securing the national title and the associated scholarship and school grant.
Looking Ahead
As the voting period progresses, Lerui Zheng’s journey in the Doodle for Google contest serves as an inspiration to students nationwide. Regardless of the outcome, his selection as a national finalist is a significant achievement that underscores the value of creativity and perseverance in young learners.