First Place
Jeremy Bleeke, Nina Oberman
Globe, Clayton HS, Clayton, Mo.

Judge's comments: An honest and sensitive rendering of the achievement gap between black and white youth, backed by statistics, administrative and teacher perspectives, and thoughtful student voices. The package explores the socio-economic and cultural roots of the academic void, and explores solutions and approaches to close the gap.

First Place
Ashley Heath
The Spartana, Homestead HS, Fort Wayne, Ind.

Judge's comments: This is a polemic, front and center. The author states the premise – that liberalism has become socialism – in the first breath and goes on to explain how the education system aids and abets this thinking throughout a student’s learning years. Unflinching, direct, controversial and brilliant, this is exactly what an opinion piece should be.

First Place
Seth Zweifler
The Spoke, Conestoga HS, Berwyn, Pa.

Judge's comments: A compelling story about the joys and consequences of teen pregnancy. As is the case all too often, the young men involved have walked away and could not be reached for comment. What makes this story compelling is that the teens involved are on the record; one who struggles to finish school at home, another who gave up her infant. The portraits are rounded with statistical data and parental reaction.

First Place
Henry Rome
The Spoke, Conestoga HS, Berwyn, Pa.

Judge's comments: This police ride-along package shows a good understanding of the journalistic applications of Web multimedia tools, including video, mapping and pictures – along with the shorter storytelling that is a hallmark of good online journalism.

First Place
Henry Rome
The Spoke, Conestoga HS, Berwyn, Pa.

Judge's comments: With extensive use of local, state and federal crime and education public records, Rome was able to authoritatively tell the story about how public and private school employees are vetted for employment. The story was prompted by the arrest of an elementary school custodian who was arrested in connection with two bank robberies. The research reflected careful detail, balance and wide-ranging sources. Strong, original reporting.

First Place
Tom Haskin
The Lion's Roar, Newton South HS, Newton Centre, Mass.

Judge's comments: This well-sourced story delves into a well-known, but seldom reported aspect of male athletics – homophobia. The words, the actions and the attitudes of athletes – especially in the locker room – drive gay youths to avoid sports. Even when violence is not the fear, the discomfort is there. The author relays anecdotes and talks to coaches, students and gay teachers to fully explore a touchy subject in a complete way.