Spring National High School Journalism Convention
JEA/NSPA National High School Journalism Convention
The nation’s largest gathering of scholastic journalists, advisers and journalism teachers
Sponsored by Journalism Education Association and National Scholastic Press Association
Join us in Minneapolis
April 16-18, 2026
at the Minneapolis Convention Center
About JEA/NSPA National High School Journalism Conventions
The JEA/NSPA National High School Journalism Convention is a semiannual gathering of high school journalists and advisers sponsored by the Journalism Education Association and its partner, the National Scholastic Press Association. The associations partner to prepare hundreds of practical and professional learning sessions, from high-profile keynotes to specific, problem-solving breakouts, hands-on workshops and discussion groups. Other convention activities include an exhibit hall with vendors who sell to student media, JEA’s on-site National Student Media Contests, NSPA’s Best of Show contest, receptions, awards convocations, critiques, career round tables and evening entertainment.
Breakout sessions for students from all media types — newspaper, online, broadcast, yearbook and magazine — are planned to meet the publishing and broadcasting needs of all scholastic student media. Some are specifically for advisers, administrators or middle school students. Whether it’s ethics and law, technology and design, advertising and business operations, photography and art or just the basics of news writing and reporting, this convention covers the bases.
With typical attendance of 3,000 to 4,000 delegates, the JEA/NSPA convention has become the place to seek solutions to the most challenging publishing and broadcasting problems, share and celebrate success stories, see what’s new in the media marketplace, discover trends and network with students and advisers from throughout the United States.
Registration rates
Registration will open in early 2026 (date TBD).
Early bird rates end March 2026 (date TBD).
JEA or NSPA members
TBD Early Bird Rate
TBD Regular Rate
Nonmembers
TBD Early Bird Rate
TBD Regular Rate
Get involved
If you plan to attend the convention, consider getting involved by judging JEA National Student Media Contests or critiquing yearbooks, newspapers, videos or magazines. Advisers volunteering their time and expertise during the convention may be eligible for discounted or complimentary registration, depending on their contributions. More information coming soon.
Learn more about NHJSC
Are you running into some obstacles at your school regarding convention travel? We know that field trip restrictions are tighter than ever, and we're here to help. This webpage promotes the benefits of JEA/NSPA national conventions and might help showcase why conventions offer essential learning experiences — for teachers and students — beyond the regular classroom.
Planning for a convention
It takes planning and preparation to attend a journalism convention, and we’re here to help with planning documents for advisers. Visit journalismconvention.org for resources and testimonials to help you appeal to school officials.
Travel resources
Planning on attending a convention? Check out our planning resources for advisers.
First-time convention grant
This scholarship aims to bring an adviser and up to two of their students to their first JEA/NSPA National High School Journalism Convention in person. Advisers applying for this grant should be first-time attendees at NHSJC. The application deadline for the spring Minneapolis convention will be in Jan. 2026 (date TBA).
Submit a session proposal
Typically, the convention comprises of over 300 breakout sessions. Members and other individuals interested in supporting the goals and programs of JEA, NSPA and scholastic journalism are invited to submit proposals for breakout sessions at the national convention. This invitation is extended to teachers/advisers, professional journalists and students in editorial leadership positions. The proposal deadline for the spring Minneapolis convention is Jan. 15, 2026. Learn more here.
Who to contact
JEA and NSPA invite teachers and professionals to speak at our national conventions about tips, topics and trends relevant to scholastic media. The convention speaker portal will be regularly updated with information for the upcoming convention.
For inquiries about sponsorship, exhibit space or advertising, contact Karli Keith with the National Scholastic Press Association.
Vendors interested in bidding on audio-visual or other event services can email Amber James, JEA's events and programs manager.
Convention-area scholastic journalism educators who wish to assist the local team can contact Veronica Purvis, JEA's executive director.
Upcoming conventions
Nov. 13-16, 2025 in Nashville
Registration $135-$205, Hotel $239/night + taxes
Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center
April 16-18, 2026 in Minneapolis
Registration $135-$205
Minneapolis Convention Center
Convention History
Statistics from spring 1990 through fall 2020
4,022
Average
4,536
Fall Average
3,507
Spring Average
6,406
Largest
(Washington, D.C., Fall 2014)
