VEGAS PBS KIDS Writers Contest Presented by Janice Allen | Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can stories be dictated to an adult?
Yes, children who cannot write may dictate their story to an adult.

2. Does the story need to be bound or stapled?
Please only use a single staple or paperclip for your story.

3. When are stories due?
Friday, March 13, 2026, at 5:00 p.m.

4. Does spelling count?
In Kindergarten–Grade 2, invented spelling is accepted. In Grades 3–5, spelling and conventions are part of the scoring rubric.

5. Can a child submit multiple stories?
No, participants may only submit one entry per year.

6. Can two or more children write a story together?
No, co-authored stories are not permitted.

7. Can a child write their story with the assistance of artificial intelligence? 
No, stories must be original and created by the child.

8. Can a child illustrate their story using artificial intelligence? 
No, illustrations must be original and created by the child. Original art includes drawings, photographs taken by the child, collages, and 3-D.

9. How are stories judged?

Stories are judged by qualified university professors, educational staff, librarians, authors, and community members.

Stories will be scored using a rubric based on the following:

• 40% Creativity and originality of plot and/or themes
• 40% Story structure and use of literary devices
• 20% Relevance, quality, and originality of illustrations

Three top winners are selected in each grade level.

10. How will winners be notified? 
Vegas PBS Ready To Learn staff will notify winners by phone after all grade levels have been judged.

11. Will stories be returned? 
Yes, stories are mailed back to students, but it is strongly recommended that non-school-related entries enclose a self-addressed, stamped envelope to ensure delivery. School-related entries are returned via Clark County School District interoffice mail. All participants receive a certificate of achievement with their story.

12. Can kids from other states enter the contest? 
No, only students residing in Southern Nevada may enter the contest (Clark, Nye, White Pine, and Lincoln counties).