The Seattle Times is inviting young writers from Washington state to take part in its annual Student Voices project. The initiative aims to give students a chance to speak up about how the public education system can be improved. The project has already proven its impact: student pieces from past years on mental health, educational inequity, and remote learning have been actively cited by local leaders and used to justify changes in school programs, directly influencing public debate and policy decisions. Participants in the new cohort will receive professional help with writing and will have their opinion essays published in the paper in spring or early summer.
This year’s prompt is: “How can schools best prepare students for their future?” Organizers ask students to reflect on what they imagine the future will look like and what knowledge is needed to meet it prepared. In their pieces, authors might address, for example, teaching generative artificial intelligence, combating misinformation, or preparing for a rapidly changing labor market.
Selected participants will join a cohort working with Education Lab editors — the paper’s special project dedicated to in-depth analysis and reporting on education in Seattle and Washington state. Writers will go through the entire process from idea to publication: developing a topic, editing their text with the support of peers and professionals, and taking part in monthly meetings. It’s important to note that contributors will be paid: each completed essay will earn at least $150, with the amount potentially increasing for additional work.
Applicants must be Washington state residents aged 14 to 22 who can meet deadlines and share personal stories in accordance with the paper’s rules. Minors will need a parent or guardian’s consent. The original application deadline has been extended, and interested students now have until February 16.
You can apply via the online form at st.news/studentvoices2026. Those looking for inspiration are advised to read past years’ essays at st.news/studentvoices. For questions, contact reporter Ryan Nguyen at rnguyen@seattletimes.com.
Based on: Write for The Seattle Times’ Student Voices project