By Sabrina Bates
The local PBS station serving families across West Tennessee is once again hosting its annual contest that engages children in grades K-5. The West TN PBS Young Writers and Illustrators Contest is ready to accept submissions. This contest is open to any child in grades K-5 in West Tennessee.
Students are tasked with putting their creativity to work by developing engaging stories and corresponding illustrations for a chance to win prizes donated by local businesses. West TN PBS team members also will record winners reading their creations for broadcast on the station throughout the year. The broadcasts will be available on the station website at westtnpbs.org.
This contest has grown over the years with some area educators making this a classroom project. To support and encourage teachers for undertaking such a task, prizes are now awarded to educators as well in the form of local gift cards.
“Teachers dedicate their classroom time and I feel they are just as important as our great students who write these stories,” said Jennifer Medford, the manager of education and communication engagement for West TN PBS. “Any business or group in West Tennessee that is interested in becoming a sponsor, please let me hear from you at 800-366-9558 or [email protected].”
As part of the contest rules, stories must be from no less than 100 and no more than 500 words for 4th and 5th grade entries; 100-350 words for 2nd and 3rd graders, and 50-200 words for kindergarten and first grade students. All entries must have a minimum of five graphics to accompany them.
Graphics may include drawings, collages, and photos taken by the student author. Entries must be on 8.5 by 11-inch pieces of paper, using only one side of the paper. Children who can’t write yet may dictate their story to be printed or typed by an adult.
All entries must be received or postmarked by Monday, March 27. Prize baskets will include books, gift cards, SkyZone passes, and memberships to Discovery Park of America for winners and educators. For more information about the contest, rules, and sponsorship, contact Medford at West TN PBS at 800-366-9558 or [email protected].
