Place Name: First Place Contestant Name: The Free Lance-Star Entry Title: Local teachers leave for more money, support; Dad seeking changes to schools’ restraint policy; and Concerns grow as end to nutrition waivers looms Entry Credit: Adele Uphaus-Conner Judge Comment: Finding "real people" who embody the news is this reporter's strong suit. Anecdotal ledes followed by solid fact-collection makes for strong packages. Bravo!
Place Name: Second Place Contestant Name: The Free Lance-Star Entry Title: Soldier dad’s homecoming a pre-game surprise; College grad shines light on disparities; and Parents voice concern at Family Academy Entry Credit: Cathy Dyson Judge Comment: A nice human-interest touch on two of the stories showcases this writer's pleasing style.
Place Name: Third Place Contestant Name: The News & Advance Entry Title: Equity at CVCC, Rising tuition, Coping with COVID Entry Credit: Rodney Robinson Jr. Judge Comment: This set of stories has a strong, problem-solving subtext. Readers will learn real-life solutions to common educational issues.
Place Name: Alternate Winner Contestant Name: The Winchester Star Entry Title: Brian Brehm Education Writing W07 Entry Credit: Brian Brehm Judge Comment: An impressive collection of stories.
Competition Comment: Lots of strong community journalism here, with a mix of warm human-interest features and pandemic-related coverage.
