Two Kentucky Students Win Statewide Writing Contest

Two students from Kenwood Station Elementary in Crestwood, Kentucky, just proved that young voices have powerful stories to tell.

Evelyn Deptola took first place in the elementary graphic novel category with her creation "Hanna the Banana." Her classmate Ryan Young earned second place in elementary poetry for his piece "Wild Weather in Kentucky." Both students competed against writers from across the state in the annual KET Young Writer's Contest.

The competition invited students from pre-kindergarten through high school to submit original work in five categories: graphic novel, illustrated story, poetry, short story, and persuasive writing. This year's contest received 1,491 entries total, with judges selecting just over 50 winners.

Contest organizers added a special persuasive writing category this year to honor the nation's 250th anniversary. Students tackled everything from artificial intelligence to historical questions like whether they would re-enlist in George Washington's Army after surviving Valley Forge.

Why This Inspires

Creative writing contests like this one give young people a chance to develop their voice and share their perspective with the world. When kids see their work recognized alongside peers from across the state, it builds confidence that extends far beyond the page.

Both Evelyn and Ryan recorded themselves reading their winning submissions. Their work is now available online for other students and families to enjoy at the KET education website, giving these young writers a real audience for their creativity.

The contest proves that age doesn't limit imagination or storytelling ability. Whether crafting a graphic novel about produce with personality or capturing Kentucky weather in verse, these students showed that meaningful art can come from anywhere.

You can hear Evelyn and Ryan read their award-winning work at education.ket.org/resources/2026-young-writers-contest-winners.