Scholastic Journalism Week

Scholastic Journalism Week

Feb. 23-27, 2026

Press Under Pressure

The Journalism Education Association will celebrate Scholastic Journalism Week Feb. 23-37, 2026. This year’s theme is “Press Under Pressure”.

In an era of contested truth and rampant misinformation, "Press Under Pressure" highlights the vital role of student journalists as they navigate free expression, institutional oversight and ethical reporting. Despite facing censorship, scrutiny and limited resources, young reporters demonstrate resilience and a deep commitment to truth and civic responsibility. More than a theme, it’s a call to support and protect their right to report fearlessly, as their work strengthens our democracy.

Throughout the week, and throughout the year, we invited you to use hashtags #SJW2026 and #PressUnderPressure when you share works of journalism from your staff, reminding your community of the importance of scholastic journalism.

Schools will be able to submit to be featured on JEA social media during Scholastic Journalism Week 2026. Submission information will be available soon. Staff will email a certificate to featured schools' administrators to acknowledge and celebrate the great work you are doing.

#SJW2026 #PressUnderPressure

Scholastic Journalism Week daily themes

Each day of Scholastic Journalism Week 2026 will focus on a daily theme related to the week's overall theme, Press Under Pressure.

Schools will be able to celebrate every day of #SJW2026 with curated lesson plans designed by JEA curriculum experts. These free lesson plans will correspond with the daily themes. Lesson plans will be available on or before Jan. 7, 2026. 

SJW Student Poster Contest

JEA is hosting the Scholastic Journalism Week Student Poster Contest from Aug. 11-Sept. 15, 2025. We will feature the winning design on a commemorative poster promoting #SJW2026.

Students are encouraged to submit poster designs inspired by this year's theme, Press Under Pressure. The SJW committee will select three finalists and JEA members will then vote for the winner.

The commemorative poster featuring the winning student design will be mailed to all JEA members in November to promote Scholastic Journalism Week 2026. We encourage you to display the poster in your classroom before and after the big week.

Click here to view or download a digital version of last year's winning poster, designed by Maryann Bautista of Omaha (Nebraska) Bryan High School.

#SJW2026 featured schools

For Scholastic Journalism Week, JEA features several schools on social media, putting a major focus on the many ways in which scholastic newsrooms around the country are diverse.

Schools will be able to submit to be featured in 2026, so check back here for the submission form. Staff will email a certificate to featured schools' administrators to acknowledge and celebrate the great work you are doing.

Declare Scholastic Journalism Week in your hometown

Use this resolution template, created by Stan Zoller, MJE, to encourage your school board, city council, county board or even student council to declare the week Scholastic Journalism Week in your area.

More ideas to celebrate SJW at your school