The Achievement Awards in Writing by the National Council of Teachers of English honor outstanding high school writing based on a themed prompt, fostering creativity and literacy among students.
Funder: National Council of Teachers of English
Due Dates: February 15, 2027 (Contest submission deadline)
Funding Amounts: Recognition award; no monetary prize. Winners receive certificates and public recognition.
Summary: Annual award recognizing outstanding writing by high school sophomores and juniors, based on a themed prompt.
Key Information: Submissions must be nominated by an educator; self-nominations are not accepted.
The Achievement Awards in Writing, administered by the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE), celebrate the best writing by high school sophomores and juniors. This annual contest encourages young writers to engage with a themed prompt—in 2027, "The Meaning of Literacy Today"—and submit original work that demonstrates creativity, analytical thinking, and a strong personal voice. The program aims to inspire students, elevate literacy, and publicly recognize exemplary writing.