Student Awards

Our student awards recognize excellence in journalism across the nation. Explore the awards we have available today for high school students.

Journalist of the Year Scholarships

Sister Rita Jeanne Abicht Scholarships, named for JEA’s longtime treasurer, recognize the top high school journalists in the country.

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First Amendment Press Freedom Award

Deadline: December 15, 2024

If you feel your school actively supports and honors the First Amendment through its student media, consider submitting an entry for this year’s First Amendment Press Freedom Award.

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Future Journalism Teacher Scholarships

Deadline: July 15, 2025

The Journalism Education Association sponsors up to two $1,000 scholarships for education majors who intend to teach scholastic journalism.

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Student Journalist Impact Award

Deadline: March 15, 2025

This award recognizes secondary school students who, through the practice of journalism, have made a significant difference in the lives of others.

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Aspiring Young Journalist

Deadline: March 15, 2025

This award will acknowledge and reward the work of junior high and middle school students. One overall winner and up to five finalists, based on the amount of total entries, will be selected each year.

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Committees & Judges

The JEA Awards Committee meets at each convention to plan and coordinate all of JEA’s award programs. The JEA Contests Committee oversees the National Student Media Contests, National Journalism Quiz Bowl and Junior High/Middle School Media Contest. Experienced journalism educators and professionals are recruited each year to serve as award jurors and contest judges.

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