JEA announces theme and poster contest for Scholastic Journalism Week 2026
The Journalism Education Association has scheduled Scholastic Journalism Week for Feb. 23-27, 2026. The week’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.
“Press Under Pressure is not just a theme—it’s a powerful reminder of the resilience and dedication young reporters show, even when faced with censorship, scrutiny, and scarce resources,” Scholastic Journalism Week Coordinator PJ Cabrera, MJE, said. “At a time when truth is constantly challenged and misinformation spreads rapidly, the SJW committee believes student journalists play a crucial role in defending free expression and ethical reporting.”
Along with the week’s overall theme, JEA has also selected daily themes for each individual day of Scholastic Journalism Week:
Monday, Feb. 23: Don’t fold under fake
The first day of SJW 2026 will focus on learning how to verify sources and spot fake news.
Tuesday, Feb. 24: Reporting in the fire
SJW continues on Tuesday with a day dedicated to highlighting war correspondents, whistleblowers and investigative journalists.
Wednesday, Feb. 25: Pressure makes professionals
Halfway through the week, reflect on lessons learned from high-pressure journalism moments.
Thursday, Feb. 26: Student Press Freedom Day
On Thursday, join JEA in celebrating the ninth annual Student Press Freedom Day. The Student Press Law Center created this national day of action to give student journalists a platform to advocate for press freedom in their communities.
Friday, Feb. 27: Truth against the clock
To conclude the week, Friday will focus on showcasing how a story evolves from pitch to publication.
Schools will be able to celebrate every day of Scholastic Journalism Week with curated lesson plans designed by JEA curriculum experts. These free lesson plans will correspond with the daily themes listed above. Lesson plans will be available through the SJW webpage by early January.
Scholastic Journalism Week Student Poster Contest
JEA announces the return of the Scholastic Journalism Week Student Poster Contest. The contest will open Aug. 11 and entries will be accepted until 11:59 p.m. CDT on Sept. 15.
The winner of the poster contest will receive $500. Additionally, their design will be showcased on the official SJW 2026 commemorative poster, as well as on JEA’s website and in additional promotions. To enter the contest, students should plan to submit an original 17×22 inch poster design inspired by the SJW 2026 theme, Press Under Pressure, on or before Sept. 15. The cost is $5 per entry.
“We hope this year’s theme will provide student artists with interesting visual options to explore for the poster contest,” Cabrera said. After the submission deadline, the SJW committee will select up to three finalists to move on to the voting round. Voting will be open to JEA members from Sept. 22-30. The finalist with the most votes will be named the contest winner.
All students enrolled in grades 9-12 in U.S. public, private and home schools within the United States are eligible to enter the poster contest. Team entries are allowed. Read full contest rules, requirements and instructions here.
“I’m always excited to celebrate our students during Scholastic Journalism Week,” Cabrera said. “It’s vital to support our students — their fearless pursuit of truth doesn’t just inform their communities, but it strengthens our democracy. Supporting their right to report freely is not optional; it’s essential.”
JEA is proud to honor the importance of scholastic journalism through celebration, information and activism during Scholastic Journalism Week each year. Learn more about #SJW2026 here.
Featured image: Students of Warhawk Yearbook at James Madison High School, Vienna, Virginia.