Inkblot Writing Contest
Creative Writing Contest for Maine Students in Grades 4–12
Submissions accepted October 1 – October 15, 2026
The annual Inkblot Writing Contest invites students in Grades 4–12 to share their original writing. Write about something that matters to you, follow an idea, or see where your words take you.
Students may enter original work in Fiction and/or Poetry. Entries are judged within three grade divisions: Grades 4–5, Grades 6–8, and Grades 9–12. Cash prizes are awarded to winners and runners-up in each division.
Submission Requirements
Students may submit one short story up to 3,500 words, or up to three poems (of no more than 10 total pages).
You may submit in both short story and poetry categories, but you may only enter each category once.
Teachers may submit work on behalf of students.
Entries will be read blind, so please do not include your name on your submission. Ideally, submissions are typed, but a legibly handwritten scan is also acceptable. PDF files are preferred.
Submissions may not have been previously published online or in print. Submissions may be printed in an Inkblot Writing Contest compilation.
Entries are free. There is no fee for schools to participate.
Judging & Awards Celebration
Cash prizes will be awarded to winners and runners-up in each grade division for both Fiction and Poetry.
Meet the Judges
Inkblot Awards Reception
Join us on Saturday, November 7 at Maine Coast Waldorf School in Freeport for a day of celebration, creativity, and community! We're excited to host the annual Inkblot Awards Reception as part of our Fall Faire. The Fall Faire offers children's crafts and games, an Artisan Market featuring local makers, puppet shows, live music, food trucks, and more! There is no entry fee and all are warmly welcome.
The Fall Faire is 10 am – 2 pm with the Inkblot Awards Reception at 1 pm in the High School building.
Winners will be notified prior to the Awards Reception and do not need to be present to receive their prize.
Inkblot Writing Contest Winners
Waldorf Education: Learning with Purpose
About Maine Coast Waldorf School
At Maine Coast Waldorf School, education is a journey of discovery, from pre-kindergarten through high school in Freeport, Maine. We pair academic depth with artistic expression, real-world application, and strong human connection, helping students grow into confident, capable young people grounded in purpose.
Our 75-acre campus is a living classroom, where woods, gardens, fields, and trails invite students to learn through hands-on experiences and extend their learning into the landscapes of Maine. Explore Waldorf Education