UHS yearbook continues to earn top state and national awards

The Utica High School Warrior yearbook continues to be ranked among the state and nation’s best after its staff earned top honors from the Michigan Interscholastic Press Association, Columbia Scholastic Press Association, and the National Scholastic Press Association.

"This book has some of the BEST copy I have read all summer from any school in the country. BRAVO!" Wayna C. Polk wrote in her judge comments.” The Warrior staff does an excellent job in regards to writing in this edition. You value solid, journalistic writing and the hours of classroom time by your adviser, and editors, are evident to anyone who reads this book. The writing in this book is one of the BEST I have seen in any book from your state this year!"

In addition to winning the Spartan award from MIPA, the Warrior also earned a Gold Medal from CSPA and an All-American honor rating from NSPA, with Marks of Distinction in Concept/Essentials, Coverage, Design, Writing/Editing and Photography.

"We were really proud of getting the All-American rating because schools must earn over 3,700 points and have four marks of distinction," co-editor-in-chief Amanda Koss said."

The Warrior had a nearly perfect score of 4,670 points and earned every mark of distinction possible. It was an amazing feeling to see all of our hard work pay off at the national level."

The 2013 yearbook featured a "Face it" theme, which went over well with judges for its writing, design, coverage and photography.

"I do not usually do this, but here goes! This is probably one of the five BEST books I have judged all summer and I have critiqued a LOT of books this year. Thanks so much for allowing me the chance to read about the past school year at UHS in the 2013 Warrior," Polk said in her closing comments. "You guys have a wonderful school with many fun activities and events for your students. I so enjoyed reading about your students and the many interesting aspects of being at Utica HS."

Last year, Utica High publications students earned more than 62 individual awards for their work.

"Every year my students try to outdo themselves," teacher Stacy Smale said, "and they continue to impress me each time by combining fresh, fun design ideas with strong journalistic writing. When a national judge goes out of their way to make comments like these, it really means a lot to the kids."

There is no prerequisite for students to become a member of Utica High’s award-winning yearbook staff.

"We utilize the varying talents of our students to make them successful in the class," Smale said. "Whether they’re a strong writer, designer, or photographer, we have something for every student, including business management. It’s truly a student publication, with strong leaders that ensure Utica High’s tradition of high journalistic standards continues."