FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 15, 2025
Chatham County Schools Celebrates 35 Years of Young Authors Program
PITTSBORO, N.C. — Chatham County Schools celebrated the 35th anniversary of its Young Authors Program during the End-of-Program Celebration held Thursday, May 14.
The ceremony recognized 42 talented, budding writers for their outstanding creative writing. Chosen from 467 submissions received this year, the honored works represented exceptional talent, imagination and student voice from across Chatham County Schools.
Founded in 1989 by longtime school librarian Mrs. Mary Lee Moore, the Young Authors Program was created to celebrate student authors in grades K-8 across Chatham County Schools and to affirm a simple but powerful belief: every student has an opportunity to be an author.
This year’s celebration honored student writers from across the district while also recognizing the program’s enduring legacy of elevating student voices through original storytelling. Moore attended the event as the special guest speaker and was surprised with special recognition from Chatham County Schools in honor of the program’s 35th edition and the lasting impact of her vision.
“The Young Authors Program is a beautiful example of what happens when students are given space to imagine, create, and share their voices,” said program coordinator, Dr. Kira Berggren, Director for Digital Teaching and Learning. “Mrs. Moore’s vision continues to inspire generations of writers, and we are proud to celebrate 35 years of original storytelling in Chatham County Schools.”
The 2026 Young Authors Spotlight was graphic novelist Tate Godwin, whose participation highlighted the many ways storytelling can take shape through words, visuals and imagination.
Each participating school recognized the authors of its top three student stories during the culminating ceremony. Additional recognition was presented to the top story winners in the K-2, 3-5 and 6-8 grade bands.
Over the past 35 years, Young Authors has become a meaningful district tradition, encouraging students to develop original written works, build confidence as storytellers and celebrate creativity alongside their peers, families and educators. Student submissions from this year’s program will be published on the district website at: https://www.chatham.k12.nc.us/page/young-authors-program.
The Young Authors Program will return next January, with resources for teachers, staff, students, and families posted on the district website to help make the experience successful and rewarding.
For more information about Chatham County Schools, please visit www.chatham.k12.nc.us or contact Public Information Officer, Jessica Pasión.
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Contact:
Jessica Pasión
468 Renaissance Drive
Pittsboro, NC 27539
Phone: 919.542.3626
About Chatham County Schools
Chatham County Schools serves more than 8,900 students across 20 schools in central North Carolina. With a commitment to excellence, equity, and engagement, the district works in partnership with families and the community to prepare ALL students for success in college, careers, and life.
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