The Bell builds “the next generation of journalists by expanding access to journalism education for students in public schools.” They’re seeking story pitches for their new national student reporting initiative, Firsthand: “We’re looking for story ideas from coast to coast about what’s happening in America’s schools. Selected students will work with me to shape their stories.”

They’re interested in 5 big themes:

1. How current events and policy affect school

2. Experiential learning and student engagement

3. Artificial intelligence and technology

4. What it’s like to be a young person today

5. Things that no one else is covering

Eligibility: Rising 10th-12th graders in public and charter high schools throughout the US are encouraged to pitch.

Monetary stipend: ~$300 to $800

For more information, refer to this post and this page.

Deadline: June 30th, 2026