Eight young writers from northern Idaho, including three from Kootenai County, were declared the winners of Idaho Public Television’s PBS KIDS Writer’s Contest on Tuesday.
Idaho children in kindergarten through third grade entered the annual contest by writing their own story that includes original artwork.
Winners including – Leah McKindree, Athol; Delilah Hinkins, Coeur d’Alene; and Mary Cole, Rathdrum – will each receive a $100 contribution to an IDeal – Idaho 529 College savings account.
“These talented young writers have bright futures ahead of them, and IDeal is working to reduce financial barriers to achieving their education and career goals,” said Christie Stoll, Executive Director of IDeal. “IDeal helps families start investing early in the future education goals of their loved ones so they can focus on achieving their dreams. We can’t wait to see what these amazing writers create in the future.
IDeal – Idaho’s 529 College Savings Program co-sponsors the contest with Idaho Public Television and rewards winners with seed money to start saving for college in a tax-efficient way with an IDeal 529 account .
The PBS KIDS Writer’s Contest fosters creativity and builds literacy skills by rewarding children in Idaho for
writing and illustrating their own stories.
In its 28th year, the competition attracted 359 entries.
“The PBS KIDS Writer’s Contest shows how important it is for children to share their voices, opinions and ideas,” said Trisha Mick, community education specialist for Idaho Public Television. “Although we were only able to choose 33 winning stories, I hope that all authors who submitted stories will continue to share their stories with those around them.”
Other winners from northern Idaho are Amy Zhao, Moscow; Trevor Urbat, Nez Perce; Mugen Nomura, Moscow; Harlan Barber, Palouse; and Abigail Arnett, Juliaetta.
