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Margaret T. Stevenson Talented Young Writer Award

Margaret T. Stevenson Margaret T. Stevenson served as a language arts supervisor (K-12) with Edmonton Public Schools for 10 years. Throughout that time, as well as throughout her entire career as an educator, Margaret worked from the perspective that language is central to all student learning. She was passionate about promoting quality children's literature as well as encouraging young writers to pursue their dreams. In recognition of her work, colleagues, friends and family established this award in 1994 and continue to make donations to the fund. Margaret passed away on May 2, 2018, at the age of 95.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this award is to recognize a Grade 8 student who exhibits a sincere dedication to the literary arts and demonstrates personal growth as a writer.

AWARD: $250 and a book with a commemorative bookplate 

CRITERIA 

An applicant must: 

  • be registered in Edmonton Public Schools and be enrolled in Grade 8
  • exhibit a sincere dedication to the literary arts
  • demonstrate personal growth as a writer and a positive attitude toward the literary arts 

The school principal and English Language Arts teacher will be asked to support the student’s application for this award.

GETTING READY TO APPLY 

Before completing the application form, the applicant must: 

  • get a signed letter of reference from someone who is familiar with the student’s interest and ability in the literary arts
  • compile an English writing portfolio that includes a range of genres:
    • a one-page introduction to the portfolio
    • five pieces of their original writing, not all from the current school year, each dated and labelled with their EPSB ID number
    • a description to accompany each piece of writing explaining the context of the piece and their intention when writing the piece
    • a one-page reflection about what they believe the portfolio demonstrates about them as a writer

APPLICATION DEADLINE: Monday, May 1, 2023

SELECTION PROCESS

The selection team will rank each submission on the applicant's range of genres, quality of work, development as a writer, personal style, self-reflection and appreciation for the work of other authors. The recipient will be contacted in June.

WRITING WORKSHOP: All applicants will be invited to attend the 2023 Margaret T. Stevenson Writing Workshop to celebrate their interest and talent as writers to be scheduled during the week of May 29, 2023. More information and field trip forms will be sent to schools in May.