Write an essay about the importance of independent media, get a scholarship

Attention high school students: have you ever pondered the following question?

“Why is it important that we have news media that are independent of the government?”

Believe it or not, it's a question that's crucial to my career, so I want to invite all high school students in Monterey County to think about it. And write about it.

And if you'd like, I'll visit your classroom to talk it over. As long as you enter the contest sponsored by the Society of Professional Journalists.

SPJ sponsors this contest because it wants to increase high school students' knowledge and understanding of the importance of independent media to our lives.

All students enrolled in grades 9-12 in U.S. public, private and home schools within the United States may enter. Students must submit original work and have a sponsoring teacher sign the contest entry form. Essays should be 300-500 words and must include an entry form. Entries may be typed or handwritten but must be double-spaced.

Three are awards are given: First Place: $1,000 scholarship; Second Place: $500 scholarship; Third Place: $300 scholarship.

Each submission to the High School Essay contest must be accompanied by a $5 entry fee. Entrants may pay by check or credit card and should indicate the preferred payment option on the entry form. Checks should be made out to the Society of Professional Journalists. Entries submitted without the required entry fee will be disqualified. All entries should be postmarked by March 7, 2014.

For more information, click here.

And I'll be expecting your calls so I can come visit your classrooms!