KET is launching the KET Young Writers and Illustrators contest, a statewide competition designed to promote the advancement of children’s reading skills through hands-on, active learning. The effort encourages Kentucky’s students in kindergarten through third grade to celebrate the power of creating stories and illustrations by submitting their own original works.

The Kentucky winner from each grade level will be entered into the national PBS KIDS GO! Writers Contest, where a renowned panel of judges will identify the national winners. Winners will be announced and national prizes, including laptops, digital cameras and MP3 players will be awarded in summer 2010.

To enter, kids must submit an original story with at least five original and colorful illustrations. Children who cannot write may dictate their story to a helpful grownup. The length of the stories varies by grade level. Complete rules are available at www.ket.org/writingcontest.

KET will accept submissions Feb.1 through April 1, 2010.Those interested in participating may contact Kathy Day at (859) 258-7451 or kday@ket.org for more information.