The Umatilla High School Yearbook Team has been hard at work all year and their efforts just received statewide recognition! Students submitted 11 yearbook spreads to the Oregon Journalism Education Association Media Olympics, a statewide journalism competition that draws hundreds of entries from schools across Oregon, many two to four times the size of Umatilla.
The contest is judged by more than 20 media professionals from across the country. Despite the tough competition, eight of their 11 entries received awards.
“Our program is really working hard to meet journalism and design standards and to be more inclusive in coverage of our students,” said yearbook advisor Alexa Lougee. “I am so excited to have the students’ efforts recognized at the state level.”
Two of the spreads earned Excellent:
"Go for the Take Down": a sports spread capturing the energy of the wrestling season - by Julie Katin, Carly Mejia-Ortega, Darlyne Munoz Mendoza, Paul Lorence.
"One Gear Away": a feature on Umatilla’s award winning high school robotics team and their hands-on work - by Carly Mejia-Ortega, Phoenix McQuown, Zoee Rufner.
Six additional spreads earned Honorable Mention, highlighting a wide range of topics including academics, student life, and clubs:
"Masterpieces in the Making": Showcased student artwork and creativity from the school’s art classes - by Esmeralda Rodriguez-Muniz, Julie Katin.
"Viking Cafe: Chefs on the Rise": Highlighted students in Family Consumer Science learning culinary skills in the kitchen - by Esmeralda Rodriguez-Muniz, Julie Katin, Darlyne Munoz Mendoza.
"Shaping the Future": Focused on future educators exploring teaching as a career in the Intro to Education class - by Julie Katin, Darlyne Munoz Mendoza, Carly Mejia-Ortega.
"Giving Blood, Gaining Purpose": Captured student participation in Key Club’s Blood Drives and community service projects - by Valeria Alaniz-Benitez, Esmeralda Rodriguez Muniz.
"Park it Or Lose it": A student life spread capturing the challenges of campus parking and construction - by Esmeralda Rodriguez Muniz, Zoee Rufner, Paul Lorence, Matthew Pina Cazares.
"Endless Possibilities": A unique feature on students’ interest in gaming and interest in digital platforms like Roblox - by Julie Katin, Carly Mejia-Ortega.
This recognition reflects the time, effort, and creativity our students put into documenting the school year. Congratulations to our talented Vikings for a job well done!