NEHS invites you to explore an ever-evolving array of Creative Challenges designed to ignite your passion for literature beyond the classroom. Our goal is to inspire a love for reading and creative expression among our student members like never before.
We encourage all students to dive into our Creative Challenges. Develop projects that reflect your unique insights and perspectives on the texts you’ve read, and don’t forget to engage in peer review with fellow NEHS student members to refine your ideas.
To support your creative journey, utilize the NEHS Style Guide for formatting guidance and to ensure your submissions shine. All entries must be submitted via our AwardSpring platform and will be reviewed by educators from across the globe.
Winners of each of our Creative Challenges will contend to be crowned Creative Challenge Champions at the end of the academic year. Creative Challenge Champions receive $100 checks to support their continued literary creativity.
Fall: Poetry Writing & Performance Challenge
Inspired by Rob Macaisa Colgate’s “We Do Not Enter the Gallery”, from Hardly Creatures, students must write and perform an original poem that explores a space, community, or experience through the lens of belonging, exclusion, access, or connection.
Find out more about the Fall Creative Challenge.
Winter: Monologue Writing & Performance Challenge
This year’s Winter Challenge calls on students to write a 3-minute monologue inspired by the prompt “The person I used to be.” Through spoken word and performance, students can share the moments that made them seen, heard, and unforgettable.
Find out more about the Winter Creative Challenge.
Spring: AI & Writing Challenge
Every tool shapes its users. The printing press changed how we read. Photography changed how we see. Artificial intelligence is changing the nature and purpose of expression. The use of AI as a tool, an editor, or a creative guide is becoming the norm. It reflects back how we think, what we value, and what we’re willing to outsource. This challenge asks you to explore the places in which the boundaries can and/or should overlap.
Find out more about the Spring Creative Challenge.
