Registration for the 2023-2024 Season

In Power of the Pen, students learn writing skills that last a lifetime. Power of the Pen writers not only receive individualized support in their school teams, but they also become part of a wider network of nearly 300 schools throughout the state that nurture and celebrate excellence in writing.

Click on the picture of Jasmine Warga, Newbery Honor author, to see how Power of the Pen shaped her journey as a writer.

Registration for the 2023-2024 season is planned to open September 1, 2023. 

Tournaments

The tournament season features three levels of tournaments: district, regional, and state. Click the map at the bottom of the page for a sample schedule of tournament dates and locations from 2022-2023. A schedule will be posted for 2023-2024 as soon as it is available.
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Teams

Schools may register both a 7th grade team and an 8th grade team, or they may choose to register just one grade level. Up to six writers at each participating grade level may compete in a tournament. Coaches are encouraged to recruit larger creative writing clubs, ultimately choosing six writers and two alternates at each grade level for the district tournament. 

Costs

Teams who register early receive a discounted rate. The initial registration fee includes participation in the district tournament, as well as the regional tournament for those who qualify. The state tournament involves an additional writer fee, as well as costs for meals and lodging. December 1 and later, please contact the regional director before registering a team. Regions can be found on the Tournaments page, and the regional directors' contact information is on the region page.

Prices are still being finalized for 2023-2024. Below are sample prices from the 2022-2023 season.

Early Bird Rate for Registration September 1 Through October 15:

•  $350 for an individual 7th grade or 8th grade team
•  $450 for a team of both 7th and 8th grades

Rate for Registration October 16 Through November 30:

• $400 for an individual 7th grade or 8th grade team
• $500 for a team of both 7th and 8th grades

Rate December 1 and Later (Subject to Availability):

• $450 for an individual 7th or 8th grade team
• $550 for a team of  both 7th and 8th grades

Preparing to Register

To register September 1, schools should have a coach and a commitment from the school principal to participate. Team members' names, up to six team members per grade level, may be filled in later. Teams are also required to provide one judge per grade level in which students are participating. Judges' names may be filled in later, as well.

Register early! Schools are accepted at each tournament on a first-come, first-served basis, and many of our districts fill up quickly.

Tournament Dates and Host Schools

Click on the map to the right for a schedule of tournament dates and locations from the 2022-2023 season. A schedule for the 2023-2024 season will be posted as soon as it is available.

We are happy to be able to provide a place for 7th and 8th grade writers to shine, and we are looking forward to a great season!

Email info@powerofthepen.org with questions.