Contest Overview
Broadcast Excellence honors middle and high school programs that consistently produce high-quality, student-led broadcast shows. This contest recognizes regularly scheduled, student-produced programming that meets STN’s standards of excellence.
Schools may submit one episode of their choice that originally aired during the 2025–2026 school year. Entries must reflect original work as it was broadcast. Re-editing for submission is not allowed. STN contests are program-based and are intended to evaluate the work students complete during the school year.
Award Distinctions
Broadcast Excellence (Gold): 90 to 100 percent
Outstanding Achievement (Silver): 80 to 89 percent
Distinguished Merit (Bronze): 70 to 79 percent
Important Dates
Registration & Submission Deadline: Tuesday, January 20, 2026 at 5PM PT
Winners Announced: At the 2026 STN Convention Excellence Awards (Livestream will be available)
Entry Guidelines
$25 per entry
High schools are allowed to enter more than one category
Middle schools may enter more than one entry in its division, as long as the shows are different formats (daily, weekly, newsmagazine, etc.)
Shows may be up to 30 minutes in length, but the judges are not required to view more than 10 minutes
Schools are not required to attend the convention to enter this contest
Cancellations and/or refunds will not be granted after your registration has been submitted.
Judging & Awards
Each entry will be scored and receive professional feedback from an industry judge
Winners will be announced at the 2026 Convention and featured on STN website
Gold level winners will be invited on stage to receive their trophy during the Exellence Awards show
Silver and Bronze level honorees will be announced and pick up their medallion after the show
Awards not picked up in person will be mailed within 3-4 weeks after the event
Need Help?
Contact shonda@studenttelevision.com with any questions.