Sally Marks | Apache Junction Unified School District Communications Department
Journalism students and yearbook staff at Cactus Canyon Middle School (801 W. Southern Avenue, Apache Junction) recently received good news.
The Crown Awards recognize outstanding student publications selected by CSPA members. Crown selects the best overall in a one-to-one comparison. All students who publish news, magazines, yearbooks, or digital (online) formats are eligible.
A few days later, more good news followed.
CCJH yearbook advisor and journalism teacher Jason Davis learned that the school was a finalist for the National Scholastic Press Association’s Pacemaker Awards. The nation’s top academic yearbook was recognized by the NSPA, with 44 finalists announced in the annual Pacemaker competition.
“If you’re new to the world of student journalism, these are Emmys and Oscars for us,” Davis said. Few schools, but only three middle schools nationwide made both.
Pacemaker finalists will be recognized and receive plaques at the opening ceremony of the JEA/NSPA Spring National High School Journalism Competition on Thursday, April 20 at 7:00 pm in San Francisco.
Pacemaker winners will be announced at the competition awards ceremony on Saturday, April 22nd at 3:30pm.
Davis said Oro will be presented with a gold or silver crown. Pacemaker winners will be announced in San Francisco in April. School representatives will be attending the San Francisco convention, and Davis said he and his students hope to be recognized for their efforts.
Cactus Canyon Junior High School emphasizes a balanced education that allows students to grow academically, physically and emotionally through academics, sports and extracurricular activities. CCJH students can get a head start in funding their college education by signing up for the Pinal Promise in middle school. This program provides tuition-free education at Central Arizona Colleges for those who meet the requirements and have graduated from participating Pinal County high schools, such as Apache Junction High School.
