Student Writing Celebrated During Annual Young Writers Day Event
Charleston, W.Va. – The West Virginia Department of Education (WVDE) and its partners welcomed more than 250 aspiring young authors to the 42nd annual Young Writers Day at the University of Charleston today. This event highlights the foundational importance of writing to academic development and student success and is a collaboration among the WVDE, the Central West Virginia Writing Project, Marshall University and the June Harless Center and the University of Charleston.
Young Writers Day is open to students in Grades 1-12 and allows them to showcase their skills through creative writing, imagination and self-expression. Writing remains a cornerstone of learning and engagement and serves as a gateway to opportunities for students.
"Reading and writing skills form the foundation for student learning across all disciplines and will help these students find continual success throughout their academic careers and into adulthood," said State Superintendent of Schools Michele L. Blatt. "In addition to the lifelong benefits, this opportunity strengthens their creative voice and encourages them to share their unique perspectives."
As part of the event, first-place state winners read their submissions, and county winners were recognized for their contributions. The 2026 top winners were:
| Student Name | Grade Level | Award Level | County |
|---|---|---|---|
| Karson Artis | 1-2 | 1st | Wayne |
| Dylan Lipscomb | 1-2 | 2nd | Preston |
| Preston Petrice | 1-2 | 3rd | Randolph |
| Joshua Ramsey | 3-4 | 1st | Summers |
| Brice Ullom | 3-4 | 2nd | Marshall |
| Mason Karp | 3-4 | 3rd | Lewis |
| Jaela Starr | 5-6 | 1st | Mingo |
| Isaiah Fitts | 5-6 | 2nd | Summers |
| Adair Cheek | 5-6 | 3rd | Berkeley |
| Gio Maniscarco | 7-8 | 1st | Tucker |
| Zoey Sturm | 7-8 | 2nd | Wood |
| Ava Holman | 7-8 | 3rd | Lewis |
| Chanel Dowell | 9-10 | 1st | Randolph |
| Amber Arora | 9-10 | 2nd | Cabell |
| Paige Totten | 9-10 | 3rd | Greenbrier |
| Irissa Earnest | 11-12 | 1st | Harrison |
| Hailee Johnson | 11-12 | 2nd | Tyler |
| Deedra Groves | 11-12 | 3rd | Brooke |
Event photos can be viewed in the WVDE’s Flickr Album. Learn more about Young Writers Day.