Student publishing contest announced

The Weekly Reader Student Publishing Contest, sponsored by Weekly Reader and organized by the Association of Educational Publishers (AEP), honors the best nonfiction publications and individual writing by students in grades 3-12. Winners get cash prizes, national recognition, and publication in a Weekly Reader magazine or on the Web.

Students and teachers may submit entries in two categories. The Whole Publication category is open to student-produced newspapers, magazines, or literary magazines that feature nonfiction writing. Electronic components such as an official, student-created website are also considered in Whole Publication judging. The Individual Entry category is open to any piece of nonfiction student writing between 500 and 2,500 words. This could include memoirs, essays, or individual news articles. Individual entries do not need to have been published.

One winner is chosen at the elementary, middle, and high school level for each entry category. Each of the three Whole Publication winners will receive a $500 check for their school, a plaque, and a visit from a Weekly Reader editor. Teacher sponsors of winning publications receive a one-year full subscription to the Weekly Reader magazine of their choice. Individual winners each receive a $500 check and a plaque. Weekly Reader will also publish (or republish) the winning piece in one of its publications or on its website.

To find out more about the Weekly Reader Student Publishing Contest and to download an entry form, visit the contest webpage or write to dgladney@AEPweb.org.