Smoky Hills PBS
BUNKER HILL - Smoky Hills PBS (SHPBS) is thrilled to unveil the winners of the 2026 PBS KIDS Writers Contest. This year’s contest received an inspiring number of entries from students in grades 1 through 5, each one showcasing imagination, heart, and unique voices from our local communities in central and western Kansas.
Students in grades 1 through 5 submitted original stories, each paired with their own illustrations, showcasing a wide range of ideas, characters, and adventures.
After careful review by a panel of judges, Smoky Hills PBS is excited to recognize the following winners in each grade division:
2026 Smoky Hills PBS KIDS Writers Contest Winners
To read the winning stories and view the “Young Writers & Illustrators Award Show”, visit SmokyHillsPBS.org. The Award Show is also available to stream here: 2026 Award Show
Smoky Hills PBS extends a special thank you to all the teachers, parents, and caregivers who encouraged kids/students to participate. We are also grateful to Messer, the proud sponsor of the 2026 PBS KIDS Writers Contest.
For more information about Smoky Hills PBS and its educational initiatives, please visit SmokyHillsPBS.org. Stay tuned for more information on the 2027 PBS KIDS Writers Contest.