As media staffs around the country observed Student Press Freedom Day, the Journalism Education Association announced the winners of the annual First Amendment Press Freedom Award.

Four Virginia schools were among the 26 recognized this year:

• Chantilly High School (11th year)
• Harrisonburg High School (6th year)
• Loudoun Valley High School (5th year)
• McLean High School (9th year)

The award signifies a school’s commitment to student self-expression in both policy and practice.

“It recognizes private and public high schools that actively support, teach and protect First Amendment rights and responsibilities of students and teachers,” JEA said in its announcement, which includes a full list of winners. JEA added that the award especially emphasizes “student-run media where students make all final decisions of content.”

The National Scholastic Press Association and Quill and Scroll International Honorary Society co-adjudicated the award along with JEA. Judges evaluated questionnaire responses from student editors, advisers, and administrators while also considering the published policies of each school, district, and media program.

Winners will be honored at the National High School Journalism Convention in Minneapolis on April 16.