Why are Free and Independent News Media Important?
The Society of Professional Journalists wants to increase high school students’ knowledge and understanding of the importance of the free media to our lives. National winners of this essay contest receive scholarship awards.
Eligibility
All students enrolled in grades 9-12 in public, private, and home schools are eligible. Students must submit an original essay that explains the importance of free and independent news media and have a sponsoring teacher sign the contest entry form.
Format
The essay should be 300-500 words long and double-spaced.
Entry process
Entries and entry forms from Kentucky should be sent to:
SPJ High School Essay Contest
c/o John P. Ferré
Department of Communication
University of Louisville
310 Strickler Hall
Louisville, KY 40292
Essays must be mailed using the United States Postal Service or similar courier service. Essays will not be accepted via e-mail or fax.
Awards
The first place winner at the state level will be entered in the national competition, for which the Sigma Delta Chi Foundation is funding three winners:
First-place: $1,000 scholarship and a plaque
Second-place: $500 scholarship and a plaque
Third-place: $300 scholarship and a plaque
Deadline
All entries should be postmarked by March 5, 2010.
For more information, see the description, rules, and entry form of SPJ’s high school essay contest at <https://www.spj.org/a-hs.asp>