Journalism students went to Sectionals at Stevenson High School in Lincolnshire and left with two placements, and one advanced to State.
At the Sectional competition, senior Ashley Rayan placed third in editorial writing, which allowed her to advance to State. At State, she placed fifth in editorial writing.
“I am so excited for Ashley. She works so so hard,” said journalism teacher Brenda Smith.
Rayan has been on the journalism staff for four years, and her teacher is proud of all her success. Rayan started as a staff reporter freshman year and now as the executive editor as she finishes up her high school career.
“I joined the journalism class because I wanted a career in journalism,” Rayan said.
Junior Annie Mattea placed sixth in advertising at the Sectional competition. Mattea’s passion for writing, as well as her artistic abilities, allowed her to experience Sectionals.
Mattea joined journalism this year out of her passion for English.
“I learned that journalism isn’t just for writing but can also be somewhere to show students’ creativity and artistic abilities,” Mattea said.
Advertising takes an artistic and creative mind.
“There are seven IHSA sectional sites throughout the state, and 17 categories ranging from photography to writing,” Smith said. “The top three students in each category move on to State.”