Newsroom is the blog for the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards, where we share stories and information about our program and our community, which includes students, educators, alumni, and partners.

Established in 1923 by Maurice R. Robinson, the founder of Scholastic Inc., the Awards began as a division of Scholastic until the Alliance for Young Artists & Writers, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, was formed in 1994 to manage the growing program. Today, the Awards are the longest-running, most prestigious recognition program for creative teenagers across America. The Awards have an impressive roster of notable Alumni, including Tschabalala Self, Stephen King, Kay WalkingStick, Amanda Gorman, Charles White, Joyce Carol Oates, and Andy Warhol.

The Alliance provides creative teens with opportunities for recognition, exhibition, publication, and scholarships through the Awards in partnership with approximately 100 regional Affiliate Partners—school districts, museums, colleges and universities, libraries, and other educational organizations. Students in grades 7–12 (ages 13 and up) residing in the United States, U.S. territories or military bases, or Canada may submit work in 28 categories of art and writing.

At the regional level, works earn Honorable Mention, Silver Key, or Gold Key distinction. Gold Key work advances to the national level; at this level works can earn Gold, Silver with Distinction, and Silver Portfolio, as well as Gold and Silver Medal.

Notable national jurors have included Edward Sorel, Wangechi Mutu, Edwidge Danticat, Billy Collins, Nikki Giovanni, and Andres Serrano. Jurors look for works that best exemplify originality, skill, and the emergence of a personal voice or vision. With the exception of some specific scholarships, work is selected for awards without knowledge of the student’s gender, age, or hometown.

The Alliance for Young Artists & Writers national office is located at 557 Broadway, New York, NY 10012.