APPLICATIONS NOW OPEN: PBS News Student Reporting Labs 2027 Spring Academy
Date: October 23, 2026
Seeking student reporters in the D.C.-Maryland-Virginia area!
The PBS News Student Reporting Labs Spring Academy is a FREE in-person training program for DMV-area high school student journalists looking to sharpen their skills with real-world experience. At the Spring Academy, you’ll spend five days learning production skills and reporting local stories alongside other likeminded students and mentors from the PBS News Student Reporting Labs team.
This year’s program will be held at the WETA office in Arlington, Virginia from March 19-24, 2027. All costs during the program will be covered in full, including lodging and meals. Transportation to and from the program will not be provided.
Build lasting connections with other student journalists and foster an ongoing relationship with the Student Reporting Labs network! Prior involvement with SRL is not required – only enthusiasm to collaborate, grow, and continue working with SRL in the future. This program is open to students living in Washington D.C., Maryland, and Virginia who are able to participate in person for the entirety of the program.
Applications are due by Sunday, December 6, 2026, at midnight PT. Read the full application details and apply here. Selection decisions will be delivered in mid-January.
Check out this behind the scenes video from the 2026 Summer Academy for a better look at the Academy experience!
What are you getting?
- A fully paid week-long storytelling bootcamp, including lodging and meals
- Connection to experienced media professionals, and one-on-one coaching
- Access to a community of like-minded peers
- Hands-on video journalism, storytelling, production and communication experience
- Mentorship from industry professionals