The National Scholastic Press Association recognized Texas High School student publications with top awards during their National High School Journalism Convention on April 16-19 in Denver, Colorado. The Tiger yearbook took First Place, out of a field of 10 other high schools, for the Best in Show in the 233-288 book size. The yearbook was also named one of 66 Pacemaker Finalists from 289 entries. Texas High School’s Tiger Times Online was one of 15 finalists, from a field of 172 entries, to earn Pacemaker status.

A team of three judges worked over the course of several weeks to select Pacemaker recipients based on content and coverage, writing and editing, design, rich media and interactivity.

Clint Smith, Online Media Advisor and Photography Advisor, said the world of journalism and entertainment are all moving toward a very convergent model in which almost all media is being shared via the internet.

"The students recognized this and made changes in our student led publications. It was their goal this year to make the Tiger Times Online the place where our print, photography and videography all converged so that our local community could see what happens at Texas High School," Smith added.

"Our publications are student-led, so being honored with NSPA Pacemaker nominations is a result of the students' hard work and dedication to journalism excellence. Our students set the bar high, so we are excited to see their work receive national recognition," said Rebecca Potter, Journalism/Publications Advisor.

Four students received awards in Sports Photography, Feature Writing, News Writing and Review Writing. Student winners during the convention were: Kelsi Brinkmeyer – Superior Award in Yearbook Sports Photography; Kristin McCasland – Excellent Award in Feature Writing; Caroline Purtle – Honorable Mention in News Writing; Brianna O’Shaughnessy – Honorable Mention in Review Writing.

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