Projekt NYC has an open call for their journalism contest for middle and high school students.
Photo credit: Projekt NYC
Projekt NYC is looking for the next generation of journalists to show off their talent with the Freedom to Write Journalism Contest for grades 6-12, featuring the opportunity for their work to win prizes, highlight their school and get published in Projekt NYC’s 2026 magazine.
The call for submissions, which is open until June 1, offers the opportunity for students to write about topics from a school sporting event or a performance at the school, from music to theater and art, giving participants a variety of creative prompts to approach the story, whether they choose to write a review, a feature story or a reflection about the event.
The contest is open to all NYC middle and high school students in grades 6–12 for individual entries only. Each student may submit one or two articles with relevant photos, which must include a completed student entry and release form, signed by a parent or guardian for students under 18.
The flyer with more details on submissions. Photo credit: Projekt NYC
For those looking to sharpen their sports writing skills, they can put together a 400-600-word article about a recent or upcoming game, highlight one of the team’s talented athletes or the amazing support and school spirit amongst students and faculty. If art and the theatre are more of interest, participants can craft a 400–600 word review, feature article, or reflection about a recent or upcoming performance, from a performance review, to an artist profile or a behind the scenes piece, describing the atmosphere back stage just before a show begins, from the cast and crew working together to create a great performance, to nerves before the curtain goes up and more of what goes on before a production.
Awards and prizes include cash prizes, publication in Projekt NYC’s 2026 Magazine, a certificate of achievement for all participants and, for all finalists, a chance to be published on the Projekt NYC Blog to showcase the talent and creativity filling NYC schools.
For full details on story requirements, including prompts and submission instructions, visit Projekt NYC’s website for more information.
Projekt NYC is an Astoria-based non-profit organization with a mission to empower the neighborhood’s youth through community service, creative expression and civic engagement. The group includes youth-led contests, volunteer projects and literacy programs, from youth maker’s markets, art and poetry contests, summer programs and more. Follow @projekt_nyc for their latest news and initiatives.