As the newspaper staff hands out this week’s printed edition, don’t be surprised if they’re walking a bit taller than before.

The newspaper was recognized by the Texas Association of Journalism Educators in a recent statewide contest as being among the state’s best newspapers in a variety of categories, including page design, personal columns and editorial cartoons.

The yearbook was also honored as having the best theme in the state for last year’s yearbook, a key category among yearbooks.

Now, the wait begins as both publications await the April 9 TAJE Conference, where the state’s overall top newspapers and yearbooks will be named.

“This recognition shows the remarkable improvement that the students here have made, as journalists and as leaders,” advisor Jerry Fordyce said. “They’re here after school and on weekends, competing in UIL and always striving to make the newspaper and yearbook better. I’m very happy their hard work is paying off.”