2013 Contest Categories

The Education Writers Association National Awards in Education Reporting honor exceptional work covering stories that add to the understanding of education from early childhood through college and beyond. Entries will be judged on criteria that include the quality of writing, clarity, insight, innovative presentation, deadline pressures, and explanation of issues. Please note that the categories have changed and that applicants should review them all before entering their submissions. For example, we have added a category designated exclusively for data reporting.

* In calculating the staff size, please consider all the FTE employees in the newsroom who contribute to a finished product. In addition to reporters, the calculation should include, among others, all editors, designers, online producers and multimedia content producers, such as photographers, data analysts and videographers.

I. GENERAL NEWS OUTLETS, SMALL NEWSROOM

Print or online journalism publications with 25 or fewer FTE newsroom staffers. Written sources of education news, such as dailies and news blogs, are eligible.

A. Single-Topic News or Feature: First Prize: “Promise to Renew” by Sara Neufeld of The Hechinger Report and NJ Spotlight

• http://bit.ly/1ho6VKM • http://bit.ly/1jqNkxt • http://bit.ly/1aPC59H

“Beautifully written package of the stories about the challenges of teaching students with special needs. Sara Neufeld takes readers into the schools and classrooms, where they can get a taste of both the struggles and challenges of the children and the difficulties and stresses faced by the teachers and why there is a high turnover rate among them. She balances the experiences at one school with what is going on in the broader environment of special education.”

“A superlative series that lays out the challenge of education reform in one of the most grueling settings. Sara Neufeld made excellent use of the access she was granted, presenting each person with respect, honesty and insight. We see the tension of ongoing staff resignations and we see the personal commitment and sacrifice of the principal and others who are determined to give students whatever support they need. Neufeld is masterful in weaving education philosophy throughout the series, so that in three segments any reader will emerge with a deeper understanding of the reform effort, the day-to- day frustrations of life and learning in a struggling urban school, and the many issues and situations the principal juggles over the course of a school year. Well-paced, researched, and written. Bravo.”

Second Prize: “Monterey Superintendent Search” by Claudia Meléndez Salinas of the Monterey County Herald

• http://bit.ly/Lh0UW6 • http://bit.ly/1eEr4u8 • http://bit.ly/1ht72oY • http://bit.ly/1d8JEI8 • http://bit.ly/1eLz9j0

“Claudia Melendez Salina's dogged reporting about plans to hire a superintendent mired in allegations about sexual harassment clearly had impact. Her reporting is balanced and presents the views of all affected parties. She writes in an accessible way and her blog post provides good insight into her approach to the story.”

“Claudia Melendez Salinas asked the right questions, and delivered solid, relentless reporting with direct, no-nonsense writing, giving readers, community members and even district board members what they needed to know - the rest of the story - about this applicant. Hidden gems throughout - this all plays out during sexual harassment awareness month! - and especially the trustee who claimed the plaintiff wished she had never filed suit, only to have Salinas deliver the plaintiff's curt reply that the litigation is going forward. Good and valuable stuff.”

AND

“Learning Hilo” by Alia Wong (reporter) and PF Bentley (Photographer) of Honolulu Civil Beat

• http://www.civilbeat.com/specials/projects/learning-hilo/

“With beautifully written prose, Alia Wong captures what life is like in Hilo schools serving some of Hawaii's poorest children. Her series provides vivid detail of the innovations being used in each of the schools profiled and helps the reader understand why the measures of success at these schools might be different than elsewhere. The series provides good look at how charter schools can be effective when traditional ones fail.”

“Alia Wong has produced an exquisite portrait of four charter schools in the Hilo area of Hawaii. Each portion of this series rewarded readers with gems of detail - used to good effect to highlight a larger concept. Wong's ability to weave diverse elements and approaches to education into this guided tour of truly remarkable schools left this reader wishing the series had even more chapters. Except for a few endings that seemed a bit contrived, these pieces were compelling and insightful.”

Third Prize: “District 287” by Beth Hawkins (Reporter) and Tom Nehil (Web Producer) of MinnPost • http://www.minnpost.com/learning-curve/2013/01/safety-zone-inside-school-where-no- students-needs-are-too-tough • http://www.minnpost.com/learning-curve/2013/01/legislative-wish-list-crafted-better-help- schools-most-challenging-students • http://www.minnpost.com/learning-curve/2013/02/meet-cross-subsidy-increasingly-painful- way-pay-special-ed • http://www.minnpost.com/data/2013/02/special-education-cross-subsidy-where-has-it-grown- fastest

“Given incredible access, Beth Hawkins was able to tell the story of students often forgotten in the educational system, and how schools are pooling resources to try to get these children the help they need.”

“With this series, Beth Hawkins demonstrates again the great value a community gains when quality journalists have meaningful access to information and people. Hawkins took a topic that makes most people's eyes glaze over - education funding - and brought it into three dimensions, showing the impact on kids, the complications of cross-subsidy strategies, and the ongoing obstacles to paying the full freight of programs that are mandated by law, essential for many kids, and often extremely expensive.”

B. Beat Reporting: First Prize: Alia Wong of Honolulu Civil Beat

• http://www.civilbeat.com/articles/18360/ • http://www.civilbeat.com/articles/18662/ • http://www.civilbeat.com/articles/19839/ • http://www.civilbeat.com/articles/18654/ • http://www.civilbeat.com/articles/18906/ • http://www.civilbeat.com/articles/18498/

“Alia Wong demonstrates a dexterous ability to get beyond the surface of education stories, and in this collection gives readers a sample of her ability to report with fairness and respect the differing voices she includes. The Pidgin story, especially, delivers nuance and food for thought on an issue that so soften produces only knee-jerk reactions. The piece on consultants and millions in education reform contracts and the piece on conditions in the state's largest high school are examples of watchdog journalism that must be encouraged at every turn.”

“Alia Wang works to hold state and schools officials accountable for their actions, a key focus of journalism today. From how schools treat concussions in their athletes to whether the state should be funding private schools or spending millions to promote itself, Alia presents the facts in an easy-to-read style. She's skilled at putting things into context and answering that key question: Why should I care? Entry demonstrates good breadth of reporting.”

Second Prize: Beth Hawkins of MinnPost (Minneapolis)

• http://www.minnpost.com/learning-curve/2013/01/safety-zone-inside-school-where-no- students-needs-are-too-tough • http://www.minnpost.com/learning-curve/2013/01/culture-conscious-higher-ground-academy- serves-largely-east-african-student-b • http://www.minnpost.com/learning-curve/2013/03/st-paul-finds-way-retain-talented-less- experienced-teachers-during-layoffs • http://www.minnpost.com/learning-curve/2013/08/his-life-samatars-funeral-brought-all- manner-minnesotans-together • http://www.minnpost.com/learning-curve/2013/08/minnesota-test-results-takeaway-our-kids- did-not-get-dumber-overnight • http://www.minnpost.com/learning-curve/2013/01/friendship-academys-journey-success-took- no-easy-path • http://www.minnpost.com/learning-curve/2013/07/what-does-it-do-kids-when-their-school- building-screams-nothing-important-hap

“Beth Hawkins fills her blogs with solid reporting on a wide variety of issues in education. Written in an easy-to-read style, her pieces raise awareness of the people, the schools and the issues important to education in St. Paul. The story on the "ladies" and the refuge they found with a teacher who gave them extra instruction in math was particularly striking.”

“Beth Hawkins brings a fresh approach, a conversational sort of authority and the savvy you hope for in a source of information about education. She hasn't dumbed it down, but she has translated the philosophies she writes about with practical examples, strong descriptive skill, and a deft and mostly reliable avoidance of jargon. Anyone dismissive of the blog format should take note of her insightful use of it, exploiting too the opportunity to make personal observations that connect on a different level with readers. The warm - not smarmy or gushing - reflection on Samatar's funeral is a case in point and the 'rant' on the depressing condition of some facilities is another. The posts are well-reported, bring in voices from many strata, and written with engaging skill.”

Third Prize: Molly Bloom of StateImpact Ohio

• http://n.pr/KhtQMH • http://n.pr/1k1hlVL • http://n.pr/1lutZYE • http://n.pr/1chuC5V • http://n.pr/19WH7nI • http://n.pr/Jq6rsi

“Molly Bloom uses database reporting to develop the themes of her reporting and then finds the real people to illustrate it. The end product is strong, reader-accessible journalism that reflects the views of all components of the education community. Her use of social media to augment her reporting is an added plus.”

“Molly Bloom brings energy to her education coverage and makes good use of social media and other crowd-sourcing techniques to bring new voices to the fore. Clearly she is not waiting around for a press release to learn what is happening and she has found good ways to go beyond the "usual suspects" and let community members raise different issues. The ongoing value-added debate will require the best resources available to give readers a fair and insightful grasp of that idea.”

C. Investigative Reporting: First Prize: “School District Violates Rights of Children with Disabilities” by David DesRoches for The Darien Times (Darien, Conn.)

• http://www.darientimes.com/18014/district-board-defend-policies-parents-seek-justice/ • http://www.darientimes.com/20788/darien-parents-systemic-issues-plague-special-education/ • http://www.darientimes.com/21514/the-six-figure-education-that-didnt-exist/ • http://www.darientimes.com/22510/records-may-have-been-prematurely-destroyed/ • http://www.darientimes.com/24839/questions-remain-after-darien-superintendent-departure/ • http://www.darientimes.com/25522/darien-schools-employees-break-silence/ • http://www.darientimes.com/25892/darien-mismanagement-runs-deeper-than-special-ed/

“Strong use of interviews, public records laws to document a serious problem with special education programs at Darien schools.”

“It's often a tough slog to get reliable data - and all the more so when the gatekeepers won't comment, families fear reprisals, and records are slow to be produced, if at all. David Desroches was not put off by the rigorous research necessary for a good data-driven investigative package, and he called out every official that would not take questions or provide reliable information. Without knowing this outlet's policy on use of unnamed sources, the package is more careful later in the coverage year to explain why some sources did not want to be named. Though "some say," "many believe," and "others say" are easier cover, they should seldom be used. An important series.”

Second Prize: “Faking the Grade” by Morgan Smith for The Texas Tribune

• http://trib.it/19pUkQX • http://trib.it/1fSQqJy • http://trib.it/15ZElhv • http://trib.it/16lJnjb

“Morgan Smith delivers a data-packed indictment of what happens when "millions of dollars of government money" are attached to a federal mandate without necessary follow-up and scrutiny.”

“Good use of public records laws.”

II. GENERAL NEWS OUTLETS, MEDIUM NEWSROOM

Print or online journalism publications with a FTE newsroom staff of 26 to 99 employees. Written sources of education news, such as dailies and news blogs, are eligible.

A. Single-Topic News or Feature: First Prize: “Coverage of Philadelphia School Closings” by Benjamin Herold (Reporter), Dale Mezzacappa (Contributing editor, Philadelphia Public School Notebook), Kimberly Paynter (Videographer, WHYY/NewsWorks), Michelle Schmitt (Principal, Maneto Mapping & Analysis), Paul Socolar (Editor and publisher, Philadelphia Public School Notebook), and Todd Vachon (Web developer, WHYY/NewsWorks) of Philadelphia Public School Notebook and WHYY/NewsWorks

• http://bit.ly/1jaXgLf • http://bit.ly/1b2faLV • http://bit.ly/1jaXu5c • http://bit.ly/1b2gxKx • http://bit.ly/1drHjM6

“The work of Benjamin Herold and his colleagues in this series asks -- and answers -- all the right questions about Philadelphia's school closures. This series does this without taking the easy way out -- neither vilifying the school district for closing schools nor parroting opponents talking points without asking hard questions first. The data mining that shows how Philly got to a city full of hollowed-out schools and the even-handed look at the too-real possibility of gang alliances crossing at certain schools show a deep understanding of Philadelphia schools today and historically. Their work appears to have even played a role in sparing two schools from closure.”

“The articles display thorough and balanced reporting that explained the financial rational for closing near-empty schools while deploying strong anecdotes and quotes to show the emotional attachments of people in the neighborhood. Benjamin employed clever methods to tell the buildings' stories, tracking down grownups who as students were quoted in 1970s news articles. It's unclear whether the articles had any impact on the decisions to close, though the intent seemed more explanatory. In that, the effort was successful.”

Second Prize: “Investing in Isaias” by Daniel Connolly (Reporter) and Karen Pulfer Focht (Photographer) of the Commercial Appeal (Memphis, Tenn.)

• http://bit.ly/1aBo2o8

“This is an important story, beautifully told. It brings to life the issue of limited opportunities for immigrant children as Daniel Connolly tells the tale of a compelling subject at a pivotal moment in his life. The fact that he opened the eyes of many readers is an impact that matters. The FAQ, audio clips, video and photos helped give context to the story. The visit to Mexico added wonderful depth to the story.”

“Detailed reporting, spare and effective prose, a neat story structure and a topic of clear import combine to make this entry compelling and powerful. Daniel Connolly's portrayal of an illegal immigrant with academic promise will resonate with many readers. Sympathy for his protagonist established at the outset, Daniel briefly sidetracks to explain with authoritative facts that America is growing increasingly diverse while failing to nurture academic growth among non-whites, with far-reaching potential consequences. With the gravity and import of his story thus established, he returns to his narrative to weave a tale that shows, instead of tells, the human toll of national policy, while implying a broader societal relevance. Daniel used the looming college decision of Isaias Ramos to establish a tension that carried the story through to a satisfying, if indecisive, conclusion that almost begs for a sequel after the immediate events in the main character's life have run their course.”

Third Prize: “Culture of Learning: Education the Asian Way” by Dave Breitenstein of The News-Press (Fort Myers, Fla.)

• http://www.news-press.com/section/asia_edu

“Dave Breitenstein's thoroughly-reported story on Asian schools did an excellent job connecting what he found in Asian schools with the failings of American education. Two elements of his take -- that parental involvement is key and that higher education institutions, in particular, should be worried, were well- executed and went beyond the typical "America is failing" line. The mini-portraits of various schools and the videos and photos rounded out this package.”

“The series starts with an authoritative assessment of Asian educational success that is clearly based on ambitious reporting. Dave Breitenstein then establishes the importance of his topic for the future of the U.S. economy, and delivers a panorama of the educational competition he saw on his trip abroad.”

B. Beat Reporting: First Prize: Jane Stancill of The News & Observer (Raleigh, N.C.)

• http://www.newsobserver.com/2013/01/19/2618667/in-a-duke-logic-class-with-180000.html • http://www.newsobserver.com/2013/02/26/2709067/unc-student-who-spoke-out-about.html • http://www.newsobserver.com/2013/02/27/2712446/unc-chapel-hill-checking-on-its.html • http://www.newsobserver.com/2013/04/22/2839281/in-research-and-administration.html • http://www.newsobserver.com/2013/05/19/2901856/uncs-holden-thorp-steps-out-of.html • http://www.newsobserver.com/2013/06/01/2932161/unc-ch-women-wage-national- campaign.html • http://www.newsobserver.com/2013/07/20/3044185/seaboard-deal-heightens-tensions.html “Jane Stancill's coverage of sexual assaults and fake classes on the campus of UNC, Chapel Hill, are well- written and informative.”

“Engaging anecdotal leads are difficult to create, but Jane Stancill nailed one after the other with pithy and detailed observations that capture her subjects and telegraph the point of each story. Her articles take the reader inside the making of a popular MOOC, explaining the broader logistical and economic ramifications of this growing educational trend. Her take on athletic and assault scandals at UNC and the roots of an anti-rape movement were balanced but pointed. And her profiles of the incoming and outgoing chancellors were a lesson in the craft, written with authority and with insights that drew the reader along. Finally, her description of a small university's struggle to survive was a sad but revealing sketch of educational financing.”

Second Prize: Mackenzie Ryan of Florida Today

(UPLOADED PDFS)

“Thorough, clear, well-written and detailed reporting on complex issues such as purchasing, school grades and class size in Florida.”

“Mackenzie Ryan's story about a transitional kindergarten program described parent anxiety over major life-altering decisions with little information. Another about recessionary budget-cutting included an interesting observation about the human element -- comfort with risk -- that informs bureaucratic decision-making. And her take on discipline was transparent and balanced, careful to disclose that students in her story who had been disciplined had misbehaved.”

Third Prize: Doug Livingston of Akron Beacon Journal

• http://bit.ly/Mm1Adv • http://bit.ly/1e2WnlX • http://bit.ly/1btbq2w • http://bit.ly/1b1oxIo • http://bit.ly/1cmgJVK • http://bit.ly/1d4YLCK • http://bit.ly/1iEIBbe

“This entry is a breath of fresh air. Every piece is as strong as the last. Doug Livingston asks the right questions and follows though until he gets the answers. His entry shows doggedness, thoroughness and results, even getting a state school board member to resign over conflicts of interest. All the more impressive that he is in his first year of reporting.”

“Doug Livingston often chooses compelling and important topics, from tragedies he linked to school bus funding cuts to reduced funding for preschool. The reporting is deep and his instincts strong” C. Investigative Reporting: First Prize: “Collapse of the Doc Hurley Scholarship Foundation” by Vanessa de la Torre and Matthew Kauffman of The Hartford Courant

• http://bit.ly/EWA-1 • http://bit.ly/EWA-2 • http://bit.ly/EWA-3 • http://bit.ly/EWA-4 • http://bit.ly/EWA-5 • http://bit.ly/EWA-6

“De la Torre and Kauffman's investigation of what happened to the Doc Hurley scholarship fund is an excellent example of reporters investigating issues important to their community. The use of federal tax filings and extensive interviews with community members, former board members, scholarship recipients, Doc Hurley and his daughter all provided useful insights.”

“Vanessa de la Torre and Matthew Kauffman document, and contribute to, the demise of a sad and faltering non-profit.”

Second Prize: “Rod Frazier Groping Investigation” by Chris Anderson and Katy Bergen of the Sarasota Herald-Tribune

• http://bit.ly/1cTOJs5 • http://bit.ly/JE8k4P • http://bit.ly/JZ3pe8 • http://bit.ly/KwXFtf • http://bit.ly/1f90tKB • http://bit.ly/1gc4F8S • http://bit.ly/19NjbFs

“Chris Anderson and Katy Bergen have done a masterful job covering a groping scandal in Manatee County, with their investigative work not only leading to the resignation of the accused but also charges against him and four other administrators. The stories increased in clarity and depth as the investigation went deeper.”

“Chris Anderson and Katy Bergen got results. Acting on a tip, they used anonymous quotes and public records to build a case against an assistant coach that officials ultimately had to confirm. The series then documents official actions: police investigate, charges are brought, the investigation expands to include other officials and resignations follow.”

Third Prize: “Throwaway Kids” by Susan Ferriss of The Center for Public Integrity

• http://bit.ly/1blrxip • http://bit.ly/1mNEo5s • http://bit.ly/1fgo8Es • http://bit.ly/1blrDqh

“Susan Ferriss' work on the lack of education provided to expelled farmworkers' children is interesting and compelling.”

“This ambitious effort by Susan Ferriss told a sad and important story about the educational challenges faced by expelled students in a rural part of California. Typically, these are children of struggling workers who lack the means to drive to distant alternative schools for which there are no school buses. So these kids are assigned to study at home alone, a recipe for failure.”

III. GENERAL NEWS OUTLETS, LARGE NEWSROOM

Print or online journalism publications with a FTE newsroom staff of more than 100 employees. Written sources of education news, such as dailies and news blogs, are eligible.

A. Single-Topic News or Feature: First Prize: “Advanced Placement” by Liz Bowie of The Baltimore Sun

• http://bsun.md/M5Zw8H

“Strong data analysis of a timely topic, provides a clear and compelling picture of how expanded AP is playing out in the state. The contrasting characters of Josh and Destiny help readers understand the issue on a personal level. Smooth and engaging writing.”

“Engaging story, sharp reporting, compelling narrative, eye-opening details. The time and care that went into this story is obvious. It shines an important light on the nuances of a would-be solution. All around well done.”

Second Prize (Tie): “Even Odds” by Jill Tucker (Reporter) and Lacy Atkins (Photographer) of The San Francisco Chronicle

• http://sfchronicle.com/evenodds

“Beautifully written story on a challenging, touchy, timely topic. Compelling characters. Great balance of exploring both the problem and the potential solutions and their various successes and pitfalls.”

“A compelling, personal look at a systemic and deadly issue in Oakland. The reporter's and photographer's care in telling the story, and the time they took to break down barriers in order to win trust, came through. Personal, powerful, poignant.”

AND “Student’s Home-Schooling Highlights Debate Over Va. Religious Exemption Law” by Susan Svrluga of The Washington Post

• http://wapo.st/1bsX7ep

“Beautifully and sensitively written, thoughtful, even-handed explanation of an issue that has gotten virtually no attention - it had never occurred to me that home school students themselves should be given a choice about their education.”

“Wonderfully written. Kudos to the reporter for gaining access and treating her subjects with respect and dignity.”

Third Prize: “Wracked With Cancer, St. Petersburg Senior has One Goal: Graduation” by Lisa Gartner of the Tampa Bay Times

• http://goo.gl/nEL4kl • http://goo.gl/C5aUwX • http://goo.gl/yX3b2h

“Wow! What an inspiring story, told with care and connection. So well told, I had to put the story down to collect my emotions. Excellent reporting, writing, sourcing and follow-through.”

“This is a beautiful, empathetic portrait. Strong character development and emotional resonance. Writing is clear and vivid. Nice conversational style.”

B. Beat Reporting: First Prize: Denise-Marie Ordway of The Orlando Sentinel

• http://bit.ly/1aQ2lnt • http://bit.ly/1eMpDeJ • http://bit.ly/1avSxBw • http://bit.ly/1g9Dq2M • http://bit.ly/1bn0JP3 • http://bit.ly/1avSKoc • http://bit.ly/1eYEDEI

“Excellent array of stories and strong reporting and writing. The Sugar daddies/babies story and the colleges chasing down graduates were particularly intriguing. Good use of data and quotes. Stories were complete, but not stuffed, and told in relatively few words.”

“Excellent package of stories. Great mix. Reporting on FAMU grades was smart and quick. Coverage of UCF size was smart.”

Second Prize: Larry Gordon of the Los Angeles Times • http://lat.ms/1cXbQSF • http://lat.ms/1ekR1yK • http://lat.ms/KwG4B5 • http://lat.ms/1cXcAHq • http://lat.ms/1ekSGnK • http://lat.ms/1geYsJh • http://lat.ms/1cXdBzg

“Loved the quick survey on the college recruiters. That's a smart idea. The feature on using technology to fight cheating in online classes was also strong. Good overall mix.”

“Great variety of stories and strong reporting and writing. They had depth and strong sources, and the voices of those most affected by them. The story on attempting to prevent cheating on online courses was a standout, as was the piece about recruiters passing over high schools in low-income communities. These are things readers really care about and should know. Also liked the look at the UC System's closed selection process for president.”

Third Prize: Lisa Gartner of the Tampa Bay Times

• http://goo.gl/zHxh3o • http://goo.gl/Dycbih • http://goo.gl/7zJ2Gv • http://goo.gl/5zTlwx • http://goo.gl/DdXToa • http://goo.gl/EG29VE • http://goo.gl/QunpPZ

“Just blazingly excellent storytelling. Each works, with strong flow, a sure narrator's voice and fine context. The three most conventional stories of the group were told straight down the middle, allowing the reader to form opinions. The senior with cancer was outstanding. The glasses for children story, which could have been a quick piece, carried a bit of magic.”

“Outstanding writing. Turned what could have been small stories into little gems (like the glasses and the cheerleading uniforms.) Cancer piece, a challenging one to write, kept a great tone throughout.”

C. Investigative Reporting: First Prize: “UNO: For insiders, Charter Schools Pay” by Dan Mihalopoulos of the Chicago Sun-Times

PDFs uploaded

“I loved this story. Mostly because the stories sparked so much change! And the reporters succinctly summarized their findings in a clear way. It's hard to discover family tree contracting and then it's even harder to explain to readers why it matters and why it's problematic. But the reporter did a great job fleshing out the flaws in the state policy, the amount of Wall Street investment in charter schools and what the story means to the average tax payer.”

“Color me impressed! Wow! In less than a year's time, Mihalopoulos' reporting undid years of questionable charter school investing by local and state agencies -- and got them to at least attempt to change their processes going forward. Untangling this story must have been painstaking but the result is highly digestible, thoughtful writing about a complex web of nepotism and influence. The graphics and photos were integral to making the stories reader-friendly and were also very well done. The package of stories also shows how, years after the first charter school opened, the processes behind their creation are still far from foolproof.”

Second Prize (Tie): “Broken Pledges” by David Glovin and John Hechinger of Bloomberg News

• http://bloom.bg/JLzlmI • http://bloom.bg/1a4BiVb • http://bloom.bg/K9tVS3 • http://bloom.bg/18hYKxH • http://bloom.bg/1gmYoHt • http://bloom.bg/1evgXrq • http://bloom.bg/KFRoLk

“Rich reporting about a subject many seemed reluctant to discuss. Bravo. The database of deaths was very revealing (and appears to have spurred stories by other news outlets).”

“And judging by more recent events, the series of stories continues to have an effect.”

AND

"Evan Dobelle: The Downfall of a Jet-Setting University President" by Andrea Estes (Reporter), Todd Wallack (Reporter), and Scott Allen (Sr. Assistant Metro Editor) of The Boston Globe

• http://b.globe.com/spending • http://b.globe.com/cancels • http://b.globe.com/dubious • http://b.globe.com/freezing • http://b.globe.com/excess • http://b.globe.com/paidleave • http://b.globe.com/resigns

“Well executed. The detail about him leaving his subordinate at the hotel while he went out and partied in San Francisco did it for me. The reporters stuck to the facts and didn't get caught up in this guy's diversion tactics ("The police chief wants to do me in!"). I also think this series was really thorough....not only did they give a run-down of the botched hiring process, the board's lack of accountability and the dude's shenanigans, they followed through all the way until he resigned. They kept going after him.” “Well-written pieces about a state university president gone rogue. But the series went further than writing strictly about Dobelle's fantastic spending patterns to point out flaws in state oversight of university spending and the poor vetting of Dobelle by university trustees -- who somehow were confident enough in their choice to overlook another university's firing in the hiring process. Proper due diligence might have saved Westfield from a lot of trouble.”

Third Prize: “Tony Bennett Scandal” by Tom LoBianco of The Associated Press

• http://bit.ly/M6cfbi • http://bit.ly/M6cwLx • http://bit.ly/M6dt6C • http://bit.ly/M6dPKj • http://bit.ly/M6dWp9 • http://bit.ly/M6e4VO • http://bit.ly/M6ehbs

“The stories that led to the downfall of a state education chief -- just a few months after his appointment -- and the rethinking of a state's school grading system. Very impressive stuff.”

“Great investigative work and follow-ups. … Also had strong, strong impact.”

IV. EDUCATION-ONLY NEWS OUTLETS

Print, online or broadcast journalism outlets that cover exclusively education, maintain editorial independence and are not published or produced by advocacy groups, professional organizations, higher education institutions, alumni periodicals or think tanks. There are no size restrictions. Examples of such outlets include Education Week, Inside Higher Ed, Learning Matters, and Chalkbeat.

A. Single-Topic News or Feature: First Prize: “The Second Chance Club” by Eric Hoover and Sara Lipka of The Chronicle of Higher Education

• http://chronicle.com/article/The-Second-Chance-Club/137817/

“This story combines great access with a high-stakes situation related to an issue of broad relevance. It's got a lot going for it. I love these lines: ‘They're here because something, somewhere, went wrong. They didn't care about school, or school didn't care about them.’”

“This is a brilliant piece from Sara and Eric. Great narrative flow, good characters, and wonderful transition between the struggles the students face (the story you expect) and the struggle the teacher faces (the story you don't expect) as he tries to be encouraging but also tough on meeting the standards. Love the Berenstain Bear detail. And the toilet paper for the crying student who failed. Really well done.”

Second Prize: “Education issues in NYC Mayor's Race” by Philissa Cramer (Bureau chief), Sarah Darville (Staff writer), Geoff Decker (Senior reporter), and Patrick Wall (Staff writer) of Chalkbeat New York

• http://Ny.chalkbeat.org/2013/12/30/farina-brings-experience-to-a-wide-set-of-urgent-policy- questions/ • Edit http://ny.chalkbeat.org/2013/10/02/five-people-who-could-be-the-next-chancellor-of-nyc- schools/ • http://ny.chalkbeat.org/2013/08/15/on-education-mayoral-hopefuls-dont-talk-about-their- limitations/ • http://ny.chalkbeat.org/2013/10/08/at-rally-charter-parents-stuck-between-lhota-and-a-hard- place-2/ • http://ny.chalkbeat.org/2013-mayoral-race/

“Chalkbeat had the mayor's race covered. If education mattered to you as a New York voter, you had to go no further than Chalkbeat to find where the candidates stood, what was happening in the race and who was likely to become the next school's chancellor. Thorough reporting combined with political savvy.”

“Really nice and inventive work here from Chalkbeat as it picks apart all aspects of the mayor and chancellor tide-turning in NYC. The piece on "our five picks" is especially strong.”

Third Prize (Tie): “Education in Indian Country: Running in Place” by Lesli A. Maxwell (Reporter), Swikar Patel (Photographer/Videographer), Megan Garner (Videographer), Debra Viadero (Editor), Elizabeth Rich (Commentary editor), Chienyi Cheri Hung (Creative director/developer), Gina Tomko (Designer), Vanessa Solis (Designer), Alyson Klein (Reporter), Charlie Borst (Director of photography), Mary Ellen Deily (Deputy commentary editor), Doris Nhan (Data producer), and Jon Reyhner (Professor, Northern Arizona University) of Education Week

• http://www.edweek.org/ew/projects/2013/native-american-education/running-in-place.html • http://www.edweek.org/ew/projects/2013/native-american-education/ • http://www.edweek.org/ew/articles/2013/12/04/13sequestration_ep.h33.html?tkn=OBABL8w oPbiD%2BAOTugSmQ • http://www.edweek.org/ew/articles/2013/12/04/13keel_ep.h33.html?tkn=ZBABqQau4SI0jTnw spCloifsEShrvx2L • http://www.edweek.org/ew/articles/2013/12/04/13still.h33.html?tkn=NBABdv9tAr2nAiDxjvBeL Ne3SNA%2B%2Bf • http://www.edweek.org/ew/articles/2013/12/04/13shendo.h33.html?tkn=PBABw2H7KU8a0ja WaM61CFSvOi6ljyEAA • http://www.edweek.org/ew/articles/2013/12/04/13morris.h33.html?tkn=PBABxvevuRkOChClnI 4nqfsFgw2NxOnga

“This is a topic ideally suited for narrative and the reporter delivers. The story about the Tobacco family is long, but the details and description pull the reader through. The story doesn't truly address the issue of why efforts to help improve education on the reservation have failed or unpack the impact of No Child Left Behind. But this is an effective portrait of things are they are.

“The article about the suddenly wealthy Morongo tribe and how that has turned around education effort underscores the effect of resources on an education.

“The series is commendable for explaining the devastating effect of sequestration on tribal education.

“The layout of the photos for the series is striking, using broad edge to edge layout to take advantage of the vistas of tribal lands.

“Also enhancing the series were videos that visually reinforced the themes and characters. The timeline is well done and art along with text are laid out effectively on the series landing page.”

AND

“Common Core, State-by-State” Sarah Carr (Contributing editor), Barbara Kantrowitz (Contributing editor), Jackie Mader (Staff writer), Sara Neufeld (Contributing editor), and Pat Wingert (Contributing reporter) of The Hechinger Report

• http://bit.ly/18Tuk0l • http://bit.ly/17KbKXP • http://bit.ly/1gkbwRl • http://bit.ly/16fGtN5 • http://bit.ly/1fCvGoB

“Great idea: trying to humanize and paint a broad picture of "how Common Core roll-out is going" across the country. … The Florida piece stands out, especially.”

“Found it valuable to get a specific delineation of Common Core issues that defined each state.”

B. Beat Reporting: First Prize: Audrey Williams June of The Chronicle of Higher Education

• http://chronicle.com/article/Department-Chairs-Find/143309/ • http://chronicle.com/article/The-Long-Odds-of-the/139361/ • http://chronicle.com/article/Play-the-Role-of-a-Search/139339/ • http://chronicle.com/article/Do-You-Know-Where-Your-PhDs/141777/ • http://chronicle.com/article/Adjunct-Project-Shows-Wide/136439/ • http://chronicle.com/article/Southern-U-Investigates-How-a/141683/ • http://chronicle.com/article/Fixing-a-Gender-Pay-Gap-Can/142705/

“Really interesting, innovative, sophisticated work. I love the story - and graphic! - about the many applicants for the tenure-track jobs and the crowd sourcing project to gather information about adjunct pay. Very valuable contributions to the field.”

“This entry contained well-conceived, reported and written coverage of faculty issues. I especially liked Audrey Williams June's clever and resourceful use of FOIA on the long odds of getting hired. The data visualization was a fun way to make a potentially dull subject interesting. The PhD placement story and the use of crowdsourcing in the adjunct project were innovative and smart. Great stuff.”

Second Prize: Ry Rivard of Inside Higher Ed

• http://bit.ly/1cnCMeH • http://bit.ly/1fiN0xk • http://bit.ly/1ecufLK • http://bit.ly/1frNGic • http://bit.ly/19Y2WFs • http://bit.ly/M7gtPU

“Good accountability reporting and nice, clear, detailed tracking of fallout from the rise of MOOCS.”

“Ry Rivard demonstrates top-notch beat reporting. His use of FOIAs, deep document dives and smart interviewing in, for example, the Georgia Tech and no-bid MOOC stories makes this entry, in my view, one of the very top entries.”

Third Prize (Tie): – Sarah Carr of The Hechinger Report

⋅ http://bit.ly/17EYw4e ⋅ http://bit.ly/1eJp98y ⋅ http://bit.ly/1eqWN2G ⋅ http://bit.ly/Mi8eBi ⋅ http://bit.ly/19io8i5 ⋅ http://bit.ly/1f7WnxE ⋅ http://bit.ly/1fCvGoB

“Sarah Carr does an unusually good job covering the adoption of the Common Core. She is one of the few writers who, in my view, escapes the trap of vague educational jargon and explains concretely and exactly how the Common Core classroom, homework and teaching is different.”

“I though the piece documenting teaching colleges' failure to change their curriculum to meet new rules was especially important.”

AND Jon Marcus of The Hechinger Report

• http://bit.ly/11g8mGn • http://bit.ly/1eqN6iI • http://bit.ly/MhUsPj • http://bit.ly/17oF45D • http://bit.ly/18fKwhA • http://bit.ly/19CwNSP • http://bit.ly/1fgHRWI

“Nice mix of stories that touch on some key issues. I really liked the story about inadequate career counseling in colleges.”

“I thought the big picture summary of the financial problems for private colleges also was well done, considering the convergence of so many trends.”

C. Investigative Reporting: First Prize: "The Gates Effect" by Goldie Blumenstyk (Senior writer), Kelly Field (Senior reporter), Ben Gose (Contributor), Joshua Hatch (Senior editor), Xarissa Holdaway (Senior web producer), Katherine Mangan (National correspondent), Brian O'Leary (News designer), Marc Parry (Staff reporter), Jennifer Ruark (Deputy managing editor), and Beckie Supiano (Staff reporter) of The Chronicle of Higher Education

• http://chronicle.com/article/The-Gates-Effect/140323/ • http://chronicle.com/article/How-Gates-Shapes-State/140303/ • http://chronicle.com/article/A-Realm-of-Influence/140343/ • http://chronicle.com/article/In-the-Foundation-Echo/140305/ • http://chronicle.com/article/Strategic-Philanthropy-Comes/140299/ • http://chronicle.com/article/Next-Generation-Grant/140301/ • http://chronicle.com/article/The-Gates-Foundations-Higher/140213/

“The Chronicle of Higher Education demonstrates the pinnacle of investigative journalism here by taking a critical look at one of their own funders. That takes courage, which should be recognized.”

“The Chronicle of Higher Ed's investigation into the "Gates Effect" bravely took a deep, comprehensive and critical look at a foundation that has funded the CHE. It was very well-researched and well-written.”

Second Prize: “SUPES Academy” by Sarah Karp of Catalyst Chicago

• http://bit.ly/1mOPlAH • http://bit.ly/MlR8T7 • http://bit.ly/1iDM2Px “Catalyst-Chicago battled far above its weight in digging up the details behind a no-bid contract in Chicago Public Schools. They are doing praiseworthy watchdog investigative reporting.”

“Very admirable digging into this contract and this organization which is clearly fraught with conflicts of interest.”

V. BROADCAST

Entries may include spot news, feature segments, special programs, newscasts, streamed online stories, or podcasts for television or radio journalism organizations that maintain editorial independence and are not produced by lobbying groups, professional organizations, educational institutions, alumni periodicals, advocates or think tanks. Please do not forget to supply a transcript of the audio.

A. Single-Topic News or Feature:

First Prize: REBIRTH: New Orleans by John Merrow (Executive producer), Jane Renaud (Producer), David Wald (Senior Producer), and Jessica Windt (Editor) of Learning Matters

⋅ http://rebirthnolafilm.learningmatters.tv

“John Merrow's efforts in trying to understand the creation of an entirely new school system from the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina is exemplary reporting. Crucial historical context, stats and research to add context, vibrant personal stories, strong pacing that keeps us engaged from the start. Marsalis music score is icing on the cake. Explains the issues, raises the important questions surrounding the new mission of ‘rebirth.’ An important topic, with lessons for the rest of the country, really gets into the nitty gritty of school politics, the risks of privatization vs. the risks of staying with a failing status quo. Lots of tension and strong storytelling. Powerful storytelling and an important historical document which, despite its unique story about New Orleans schools after Katrina, speaks to issues facing other urban districts. A winner.”

“It's clear that years of deep reporting went into the project, and the repeated check-ins with superintendents, students, and charter-school leaders pay off, giving the piece some compelling characters and a strong narrative arc. Interviews with a very wide pool of experts, observers, and skeptics provide very valuable context throughout, and the piece does a solid job of exploring the upside and the downside of Teach for America and charter schooling.”

Second Prize: “The View From Here: Class Dismissed” by Kaitlin Bane (Intern), Joe Barr (Executive Producer), Emma Bowman (Intern), Paul Conley (Co-Producer), David Fuentez (Intern), Cosmo Garvin (Intern), Al Gibes (Digital Content Director), Steve Milne (Reporter), Julia Mitric (Reporter), Veronika Nagy (Web Designer), Andrew Nixon (Multimedia Reporter/Producer), Rebecca Plevin (Reporter), Alan Ray (Senior Editor), Jesikah Maria Ross (Community engagement specialist), and Catherine Stifter (Co- Producer) of Capital Public Radio (Sacramento, Calif.)

⋅ http://www.capradio.org/classdismissed

“The Cap Pub Radio team reporting effort to create this documentary and the tangential multi-media presentations is impressive. The tone of the production is conversational and fresh. I like the intertwining of reporters ‘casually’ telling us about the story with the tape from scenes and intimate interviews. The tape is strong and revealing, echoing familiar drop out themes but in fresh, personal stories. The documentary peels the onion back on these thoughtful young people's lives. … Though these are the positive stories with kids from organizations who are helping them, their life stories are typical of the difficulties many at risk youth contend with. It doesn't feel sugar coated.”

“The Capital Public Radio team gave this a very thoughtful treatment, anchored by very deep reporting. The reporters got great access to the students they profile, did strong work to add family and counselor voices for context, and managed to write in an engaging, conversational style.”

Third Prize: “DPS Kids Get Away with Death Threats, Fights and More, Teachers Say” by Jenny Brundin of Colorado Public Radio

⋅ http://www.cpr.org/news/story/dps-kids-get-away-death-threats-fights-and-more-teachers-say

“Good topic: what is happening inside schools which are refusing to expel or suspend kids, in an effort to decriminalize students who cause trouble, to keep them learning with in school suspensions. … Brundin is ahead of a trending issue and gets right into the heart of it. Strong writing, essential tape, and really gets deep into this issue. Impressive. This is a very good education reporter at work.”

“I remember Brundin from last year's excellent Trevista series, and I think that her writing, narration, and reporting remains a cut above most beat reporters'. This is a thorough and disturbing examination of a school system with serious disciplinary problems, and she guides us through it well.”

B. Beat Reporting: First Prize: Jenny Brundin of Colorado Public Radio

⋅ http://www.cpr.org/story/losing-ground-education-gap ⋅ http://www.cpr.org/news/story/dps-kids-get-away-death-threats-fights-and-more-teachers-say ⋅ http://www.cpr.org/news/story/students-sway-saxophone-during-silent-lunch ⋅ http://www.cpr.org/news/story/new-way-fund-colorado-schools ⋅ http://www.cpr.org/news/story/beloved-denver-teacher-stunned-be-dps-no-hire-list ⋅ http://stg.cpr.org/article/Lobato_Heard_In_Supreme_Court_8_Years_After_First_Filed ⋅ http://bit.ly/1f83TbM

“It's often hard for radio education reporters to find a unique way to cover the beat. This is the way to do it. These stories get to the heart of what's going on in Colorado's public schools, as well as many schools across the U.S., but the stories are often told through personal points of view. Jenny makes very effective use of sound and does a great job of including a variety of voices in her stories. (That's not always easy to do.) … Often in public radio the importance of a reporter's delivery is overlooked. But Jenny's delivery is very conversational and draws the listener in. That makes a real difference. She's not a sterile storyteller. She's invested in the topic.

“She also manages to cover a wide range of topics here. That keeps listeners engaged. Even though some pieces are long, she is able to pace them so that they keep moving and the listener isn't bored.”

“Jenny is just one of those reporters who really understands how to tell a story.”

Second Prize: Dan Carsen of Southern Education Desk/WBHM

⋅ http://www.npr.org/2013/08/26/215795012/not-enough-work-for-veterinarians ⋅ http://n.pr/1dLjHob ⋅ http://www.npr.org/2013/08/12/211351050/ala-school-district-cancels-bus-service-igniting- controversy ⋅ http://www.wbhm.org/News/2013/Pre-K-access ⋅ http://www.southerneddesk.org/?p=8191 ⋅ http://www.wbhm.org/News/2013/TeachingCivilRights ⋅ http://www.wbhm.org/News/2013/BhamSchoolsSeries1 ⋅ http://www.southerneddesk.org/?p=9819 ⋅ http://www.wbhm.org/News/2013/CommonCore1

“This is a very well-done submission. Dan does a great job covering a variety of angles.”

“Across the board Dan does a great job of presenting the information. He does this in a way that is not only a pleasure to listen to but is also easy to digest and gets you thinking. This was apparent in each example that was provided. Very informative!”

Third Prize: Rob Manning of Oregon Public Radio (Editing by Eve Epstein)

⋅ http://www.opb.org/news/article/shorting-students-on-classroom-time-not-just-a-portland- problem/ ⋅ http://www.opb.org/news/article/schools-learning-to-teach-in-a-touch-screen-world/ ⋅ http://www.opb.org/news/article/bring-your-own-device-policy-in-beaverton-schools-/ ⋅ http://www.opb.org/news/article/going-door-to-door-to-get-dropouts-back-in-class/ ⋅ http://bit.ly/1iE0WFn ⋅ http://www.opb.org/news/article/school-officials-suspect-bias-in-oregon-teacher-exams-/ ⋅ http://bit.ly/1f7gCLO

“This was very thorough coverage that included a range of topics. The standout story here was the campaign to get dropouts back in school. That really grabbed the listener and included enough suspense to keep him/her hooked. A variety of voices included in these stories helped round out the narratives so that they didn't seem one-sided or linear. …

Very well done.”

“I loved these stories! I especially liked the story about allowing kids to use their own devices to learn. Absolutely fascinating. I had not heard of this idea. I also really liked the way the door-to-door dropout story was handled. It could so easily have been a brief synopsis of what happens but instead it was this very well thought out and executed piece that kept my interest throughout. The other submissions were just as interesting and well crafted. A real pleasure.”

C. Investigative Reporting: First Prize: “This American Life: Harper High School” by Alex Blumberg (Producer), Ben Calhoun (Producer), Ira Glass (Host/Executive producer), Sarah Koening (Producer), Alex Kotlowitz (Independent journalist), Linda Lutton (Education Reporter), Miki Meek (Producer), Jonathan Menjivar (Producer), Lisa Pollak (Producer), Brian Reed (Producer), Robyn Semien (Producer), Alissa Shipp (Producer), Julie Snyder (Senior producer), and Nancy Updike (Producer) of WBEZ (Chicago)

⋅ http://www.thisamericanlife.org/radio-archives/episode/487/harper-high-school-part-one ⋅ http://www.thisamericanlife.org/radio-archives/episode/488/harper-high-school-part-two

“This is one of the most compelling broadcast education stories I've heard. It can be challenging to focus on one place (a school in this case) and make it relevant to a wider audience, but this story accomplishes that. Dedicating a team of reporters to cover the story had a powerful effect. As much ground as these reporters were able to cover, they still left the listener wanting to know more.”

“I heard this story when it was initially played early last year. Listening back to the program reminded me of how brilliant the storytelling is here. A great story wasn't a given just because This American Life committed 3 reporters and 5 months of their time. It certainly helped, but really it is how these stories are written, crafted and edited that make the difference. Sure they wouldn't have been able to do a great job without the access... but this is just journalism at its finest.”

Second Prize: “Yesterday's Dropouts” by Tara Boyle (Editor) and Kavitha Cardoza (Special correspondent) of WAMU (Washington, D.C.)

⋅ http://bit.ly/1aagNsN ⋅ http://bit.ly/1asrch2 ⋅ http://bit.ly/1mbpWUs ⋅ http://bit.ly/LjNfh6

“What a well-done series. Not only were the broadcast stories compelling, well-written, delivered, and produced, but the web component was very impressive. This is an excellent cross-platform series on the American dropout crisis. It's always a good sign when a 12-minute radio story seems a lot shorter than that. The stories were well-paced so that the listener didn't feel bogged down or bombarded with too much information. Each story is a reminder of the struggles some students face and the failure to find a solution that sticks.”

“Amazing. Each story told in such detail it really feels like you are there. Not many can do that for me.”

Third Prize: “Bilingual Learning” by Sean Dillingham (Designer), Deepa Fernandes (Early childhood education correspondent), Chris Keller (Data journalist), Evelyn Larrubia (Education editor), Maya Sugarman (Photographer and videographer), Jon White (Designer), and Eric Zassenhaus (Web editor) of KPCC (Pasadena, Calif.)

⋅ http://projects.scpr.org/bilinguallearning/

“This is a really innovative approach to storytelling. The reporter can go beyond the confines of broadcast in order to best explain the issue. The audience gets more out of the story. Although this is likely very time consuming, it's a great model for developing cross-platform media stories. Very well done.”

“Very, Very cool. I've never seen this done quite so well for a radio story. I loved the different ways provided to consume the information. Everything was done top notch.”

D. Audio/Video from Non-Broadcast Outlet: First Prize: “Education in Indian Country: Running in Place” by Megan Garner (Videographer), Swikar Patel (Photographer, Videographer), Lesli Maxwell (Reporter), Debra Viadero (Editor), Chienyi Cheri Hung (Creative Director/Developer), and Doris Nhan (Data producer) of Education Week

⋅ http://www.edweek.org/ew/projects/2013/native-american-education/a-long-road-back-to- rez-video.html ⋅ http://youtu.be/-m9OAovoUwA ⋅ http://youtu.be/8HuBtzCZUPM ⋅ http://www.edweek.org/ew/projects/2013/native-american-education/running-in-place.html

“This is a topic in need of broader coverage. What a wonderfully-written, comprehensive look at the history of some Native American reservations and the problems that persist in some areas. This is a topic that can't be covered enough. What stood out the most to me was the simple sentence in the middle summarizing mainstream America's focus on school as being solely achievement-oriented. “The cross-platform components really worked and helped bring out the emotion and heart of the story. This is a compelling piece of work.”

VI. MAGAZINES AND WEEKLIES

Print and online magazines and weekly newspapers that are editorially independent and not published by advocacy groups. Examples of such outlets include The Atlantic, Miami New Times, The Texas Observer and Chicago Reader.

A. Feature Reporting: First Prize: “Working for Superman” by Patrick Michels of The Texas Observer

⋅ http://www.texasobserver.org/superintendents-texas-struggling-schools/

“I thoroughly enjoyed the conversational writing style. Story has a strong tone and the reporter wrote with confidence and a strong depth of knowledge on the topic. This was the only story that left me wanting more.”

“It touches a very, very important nerve -- the superintendent as rock star and panacea -- and really takes it apart the way journalism should. Fantastic writing, smart use of sources and quotes. … Solid top to bottom.”

Second Prize: “Will New Teacher Evaluations Help or Hurt Chicago's Schools?” by Sara Neufeld of The Hechinger Report (Appearing in The Atlantic)

⋅ http://bit.ly/MhIsNL

“Very good. This was compelling and complete coverage of the issue. Great quotes and the reporter did a great job balancing the experts with the people most affected by this.”

“Very nice reporting, good variety of sources, excellent writing. … [A] worthy exploration of something that otherwise seems like a perennial teacher/administration whine.”

Third Prize: “What Kentucky Can Teach the Rest of the U.S. About the Common Core” by Sarah Butrymowicz of The Hechinger Report (Appearing in The Atlantic)

⋅ http://bit.ly/1fiIuz0

“The article did a good job going behind the scenes on an issue. The classroom instruction examples were well-written and helped illustrate how and why Common Core is different. I also enjoyed the variety of teachers and schools visited across the state.” “A well-done piece that examines Common Core in action from several vantage points. The opening drew me in and held my attention. It had a national feel to it even though the headline focuses on Kentucky. Very good.”

B. Investigative Reporting: First Prize: “College Aid Advisors” by Kim Clark of Money Magazine

⋅ http://money.cnn.com/2013/01/01/pf/college/college-aid.moneymag/

“This was an extremely strong piece. It shed light on a problem few people knew about, while focusing on the hot topic of paying for college. The article was easy to follow, making it obvious that the reporter knew this material in and out and could write with true authority. The structure worked for me -- highlighting the "bait" and the explaining "how to avoid this trap." The quiz was especially well designed to help readers.”

“Now this is an investigative piece. The reporter clearly knows her stuff, has found a piece of the college-debt issue we didn't know about and explained it in very good writing. Clark asks questions I didn't even know I wanted to know the answer to -- how do college loan advisers get ‘certified’? … The piece has tons of great data points that are easy to digest but, in some cases, scandalous. Well done.”

VII. DATA JOURNALISM

A story or series that features exceptional use of data gathering, analysis and/or data visualization produced by an independent print, online or broadcast journalism outlet. (Examples: interactive graphs, flash media and dynamic maps). Limit to five items.

Entries should not be submitted to other categories in this contest.

Education-only news outlets may also enter this set of categories.

A. Small Newsroom (1 – 25) First Prize: “2013 College Rankings” by Paul Glastris (Editor-in-chief), Kevin Carey (Guest editor) and Robert Kelchen (Data editor) of the Washington Monthly

⋅ http://bit.ly/1dKUkTu ⋅ http://bit.ly/1beTj0a ⋅ http://bit.ly/1dP6XLN ⋅ http://bit.ly/1aGd4hg ⋅ http://bit.ly/1eOxJBS ⋅ http://bit.ly/1fTFJHa ⋅ http://bit.ly/1aGdunO ⋅ http://bit.ly/1beTj0a ⋅ http://bit.ly/18YqYNT ⋅ http://bit.ly/1f7oehN ⋅ http://bit.ly/1aGeaJS

“College rankings by themselves are subjective, determined by an organization's decision on what to include. In this case, Washington Monthly provides good transparency in explaining the measures it included in its ranking and why it provides a more accurate picture of American higher education.”

“Washington Monthly has come up with higher-ed ratings for everyman, those who see past prestige to value. Who knew a college education of quality could be found for less than $1000/year at a school named Berea? The methodology for several categories is clearly mapped out, though many would find grounds for debate on how to weigh the various categories. A refreshing and insightful method of evaluating this level of education.”

B. Medium Newsroom (26 – 99) First Prize: “Executive Compensation at Private Colleges, 2011” Jonah Newman (Database reporter) and Brian O'Leary (News designer) of The Chronicle of Higher Education

⋅ http://chronicle.com/article/Executive-Compensation-at/143541/#id=table

“Jonah Newman and Brian O'Leary's database on private college president compensation is definitive in scope, comprehensive and well-executed. Not only are they taking the time to pore through Form 990s to get and compile salary data, they have gotten photographs of each president and created a user- friendly way for readers to compare salaries and benefits not only nationally but by useful groups of peer comparisons. It's particularly powerful that they have arranged their data so that readers can see a comparison of presidents' pay over time and a comparison of their salaries with other key employees at their institutions -- an additional layer of work that makes their results even more useful. Specifically, the ability to see a president's pay in context on a single tab takes the guess-work out of the numbers with a clear presentation.”

“Jonah Newman and Brian O'Leary plowed through public tax return information to build a database revealing the pay of leaders in higher education. The data allows easy comparisons by a variety of factors that provide context. The articles by Newman and Jack Stripling provide additional context with balanced reporting that explains why this issue matters.”

Second Prize: “NC Superintendents' Contracts Packed with Perks” Kelly Hinchcliffe (WRAL Investigates/Special Projects Producer) and Tyler Dukes (Web editor) of WRAL (Raleigh, N.C.)

⋅ http://www.wral.com/nc-superintendents-contracts-packed-with-perks/12785279/ ⋅ http://www.wral.com/superintendent-contracts/12781439/ “The reporting and data use in this entry about superintendent contracts is comprehensive and user- friendly. Not only did Kelly Hinchcliffe tread and annotate every superintendent’s contract in North Carolina, she helped organize it in a way that readers would find accessible. The article accompanying the work was also clear and well-organized.”

“Kelly Hinchcliffe conducted what sounds like an exhausting battle to obtain superintendent contracts from 115 school districts. The effort paid off with a database, open to readers and augmented with a map, brings transparency to the topic. The data are accompanied by nice writing -- clear and balanced explanations about what goes into salary negotiations.”

Third Prize: “Remedial Education in West Michigan” by Brian McVicar and Monica Scott of MLive Media Group / Grand Rapids Press

⋅ http://www.mlive.com/news/grand- rapids/index.ssf/2013/07/time_is_the_enemy_why_grcc_is.html#incart_r ⋅ http://www.mlive.com/news/grand- rapids/index.ssf/2013/07/time_is_the_enemy_why_grcc_is.html#incart_r ⋅ http://www.mlive.com/news/grand- rapids/index.ssf/2013/07/database_see_how_many_recent_g.html ⋅ http://www.mlive.com/news/grand- rapids/index.ssf/2013/07/colleges_kent_county_school_di.html

“This work by Brian McVicar and Monica Scott is a solid look at college remediation rates in Western Michigan.”

“Brian McVicar and Monica Scott fought for valuable information that gives insight into the relative quality of high schools, based on the percent of their graduates who require remediation in college. It is accompanied by a database that allows readers to look up the stats for particular schools, and breaks down the remediation needs by subject area, which is also useful. The data are accompanied by articles that both describe the information and explain why it matters (it drives up the cost of college by forcing students to take extra courses that do not count toward a college degree). The reporting then explores attempts to address the deficiencies.”

C. Large Newsroom (100 +)

NO WINNERS

VIII. OPINION JOURNALISM

Eligible entries are produced by journalists and appear in independent news outlets of any size. Such outlets are not published by lobbying groups, professional organizations, educational institutions, alumni periodicals, advocates, advocacy groups or think tanks.* Entries may consist of a single signed or unsigned blog, broadcast item, editorial or column expressing the opinion of the author and/or the news outlet. Entries may also consist of a series of up to four pieces.

*Non-journalists writing opinion pieces should apply in the EDUCATION ORGANIZATIONS AND EXPERTS – Thought Piece/Opinion or Continuing Coverage of an Issue categories.

First Prize: Kate T. Grossman of the Chicago Sun-Times for her coverage of school closings in Chicago

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“Sharp, on-point and highly specific. Keeping up the drumbeat prompted CPS to change its ways. Impressive work.”

“I like that the editorial board did its own reporting and actually went to the schools! ”

Second Prize: Jeffrey Selingo of The Chronicle of Higher Education for his commentary on rethinking higher education

⋅ http://chronicle.com/article/How-to-Motivate-Colleges-to/139959/ ⋅ http://chronicle.com/article/How-a-Little-Data-Can-Solve/139347/ ⋅ http://chronicle.com/article/Colleges-Can-Still-Save/143305/ ⋅ http://chronicle.com/blogs/next/2013/03/14/lets-kill-the-prestige-race-before-it-kills-higher- ed/

“These are thoughtful pieces that are well-researched, and written with authority.”

Third Prize: Susan Nielsen of The Oregonian for her commentary on cuts to instructional time

⋅ http://bit.ly/KwsJbS

“Acting more as investigative reporter than opinion writer, Susan Nielsen's work uncovered a sad truth about some Oregon schools: Less is less when it comes to time in class. She drew attention to an issue that was entirely unnoticed and prompted looks by state agencies and spread awareness to parents.”

IX. EDUCATION ORGANIZATIONS AND EXPERTS

Content written or produced by advocacy groups, professional organizations, higher education institutions, alumni periodicals, think tanks, and individual advocates, academics, policy analysts, activists and bloggers are eligible. Examples include the American School Board Journal, New America Foundation, Thomas B. Fordham Institute and School Reform News.

A. Continuing Coverage of an Issue:

First Prize: “Educator Challenges the Common Core” by Anthony Cody writing for Education Week

⋅ http://bit.ly/1dhiCiB ⋅ http://bit.ly/1evkUg5 ⋅ http://bit.ly/19Tnxsh ⋅ http://bit.ly/ILHWVB ⋅ http://bit.ly/19TnTis

“Very good. This is by far the best and most rational coverage I've seen on Common Core in a long time. You can tell he knows his stuff and I appreciate his conversational tone. I'm sure part of that is because these are blogs but still, it's a skill and one that few can do well.”

“Cody is clearly well-versed on these issues, writes in a comfortable cadence and provides some much- needed cool-headed rational balance to a very incendiary topic. I particularly liked the exchange with an articulate, reasoned reader -- interactive journalism and blogging is best when it isn't a one-way communication. … [R]readers can dip in when they wish, dip out when they've had their fill or chase links down bunny holes if they wish. A valuable on-going contribution to discussion on this matter.”

Second Prize: “Continuing Coverage of Common Core” by Chester E. Finn, Jr., Michael J. Petrilli, Kathleen Porter-Magee, and Sol Stern of The Thomas B. Fordham Institute

⋅ http://bit.ly/1d7Zl44 ⋅ http://bit.ly/1d4Z54i ⋅ http://bit.ly/L34Okg ⋅ http://bit.ly/1iDICwb ⋅ http://bit.ly/1jXCTzg

“Spicy and engaging writing, excellent analysis of a wide and deep variety of elements of the Common Core debate make these pieces a real pleasure. I learned a lot about the reading requirements and I enjoyed very much the brashness of the reaction to the far-right by an institution that is more near- right. There was an agenda, yes, but there was also an intellectual honesty here that was refreshing and valuable to the broader conversation. Well done.”

“The blogger knows the issue and isn't afraid to call people out when they are twisting the facts or are being just plain wrong. The straight-forward honesty and attitude is needed when writing about a topic like this. (And is appropriate for this publication. Others don't have that luxury.) Writing style was clean and easy to follow. This would be understandable for a newcomer to the issue and an expert.”

Third Prize: “ZIP Codes and Public Education” by Brenda Álvarez, Edward Graham, Cindy Long, Anita Merina, John Rosales, and Tim Walker of the National Education Association

⋅ http://neatoday.org/2013/08/22/whats-her-number-what-zip-codes-tell-us-about-public- school-quality/ ⋅ http://neatoday.org/2013/10/23/in-the-danger-zone-schools-bring-healing-to-communities-hit- by-disast ⋅ http://neatoday.org/2014/01/14/three-schools-give-new-positive-meaning-to-school-choice/

“This was hands-down one of the most creative and innovative approaches I've seen to storytelling among all the entries.”

“I really liked this approach and the vast range of stories that it enabled. What's more, the journalists present really interesting, well-written stories about real people doing interesting or meaningful things around the nation.”

B. Best Blog: First Prize: “Ed Central” by Laura Bornfreund, Stephen Burd, Kevin Carey, Jason Delisle, Rachel Fishman, Lisa Guernsey, Alex Holt, Anne Hyslop, Amy Laitinen, Clare McCann, Mary Alice McCarthy, Ben Miller, Lindsey Tepe, Melissa Tooley, Ross van der Linde, and Conor Williams of the New America Foundation

⋅ http://www.edcentral.org/building-bridges-pre-k-kindergarten/ ⋅ http://www.edcentral.org/march-27-matters-education-sequestration-doesnt/ ⋅ http://www.edcentral.org/pay-attention-supposedly-low-mooc-completion-rates/ ⋅ http://www.edcentral.org/rapid-analysis-new-ed-department-data/ ⋅ http://www.edcentral.org/future_of_gamification_in_edu/ ⋅ http://www.edcentral.org/vodka-bed-bath-beyond-rocky-iv-explain-private-college-pricing/ ⋅ http://www.edcentral.org/two-approaches-closing-skills-gap-one-actually-works/

“Clear, digestible, reflection on education policy in catchy and understandable prose.”

Second Prize: “Common Core Watch” by Jennifer Borgioli, Chester E. Finn, Jr., Kathleen Porter-Magee, and Jason Zimba of The Thomas B. Fordham Institute

⋅ http://bit.ly/1mON5JM ⋅ http://bit.ly/1jXF3yL ⋅ http://bit.ly/1esJzjI ⋅ http://bit.ly/1n86ZT6 ⋅ http://bit.ly/1ebae8h ⋅ http://bit.ly/Lrqc43 ⋅ http://bit.ly/1cmkBWF

“Thoughtful and measured. … Kathleen Porter-Magee's editing seems to keep the tone constant.”

Third Prize: “The Torch” by Joseph Cohn, William Creeley, Susan Kruth, Greg Lukianoff, Nico Perrino, and Catherine Sevcenko of the Foundation for Individual Rights in Education

⋅ http://thefire.org/article/15809.html ⋅ http://thefire.org/article/15838.html ⋅ http://thefire.org/article/15849.html ⋅ http://thefire.org/article/16048.html ⋅ http://thefire.org/article/16511.html

“Tightly written. Interesting range of topics covered. Unique in that there are multiple writers.”

C. Stand-alone Feature: First Prize: “‘No Excuses’ Kids Go to College” by Robert Pondiscio for Education Next

⋅ http://educationnext.org/no-excuses-kids-go-to-college/

“Top notch in almost every way.”

“This is a stand-out piece by Robert Pondiscio, which transcends the normal advocacy organization submissions by answering a key question anyone who has followed "high-stakes, no-excuses" charter schools for years has wondered: How successful are these kids, eventually, when they get into college? Alternatively weaving in narratives of students and histories of programs like KIPP, this piece shines for raising important questions about the ultimate outcomes for students emerging from some of the biggest hitters in the charter school movement.”

Second Prize: “A Factory of Excellence?” by Sarah Ovaska (Investigative reporter) and Ricky Leung (Visual and graphics editor) of N.C. Policy Watch

⋅ http://www.ncpolicywatch.com/category/a-factory-of-excellence/ ⋅ http://www.ncpolicywatch.com/2013/01/28/schools-goal-from-beginning-to-help-black-youth/ ⋅ http://www.ncpolicywatch.com/2013/01/28/serbian-students-beg-for-help-spark-dpi-interest/ ⋅ http://www.ncpolicywatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/QEA-world-map.jpg ⋅ http://www.ncpolicywatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/QEA-players-resize.jpg

“This investigative piece deserves to win an award.”

“This was an ambitious undertaking for a relatively small, non-MSM organization. The reporter did a nice job obtaining documents and evidence to point to some pretty big concerns with this school.” Third Prize: “How Elite Law Schools Are Offering Free Rides on the Taxpayers' Dime” by Jason Delisle and Alex Holt of New America Foundation (Appearing in The Chronicle of Higher Education)

⋅ http://chronicle.com/article/How-Elite-Law-Schools-Are/141103/

“An excellent piece. Solid reporting. A clear sense of the problem and potential solutions. Well argued.”

“Interesting piece on what stands to be a highly profitable loophole.”

D. Thought Piece/Opinion: First Prize: “A Sandy Hook Parent's Letter to Teachers” by Nelba Marquez-Greene for Education Week

⋅ http://www.edweek.org/ew/articles/2013/09/06/03marquezgreen.h33.html?tkn=WBABu6r%2F vZKKKtJ7RbOKZD92

“oh my. not sure how i can't choose this one. very moving, inspiring. harder to find a more persuasive advocate than a parent of a victim in a school shooting. I only wish this had been longer. would like to hear more about her story and her daughter and her high school teacher”

“It is hard to read Nelba Marquez-Greene's letter to teachers - especially with that sweet picture of her adorable daughter - and not tear up. She is demonstrating tremendous courage. Blessings be upon her.”

Second Prize: “Learning About Love” by Richard Weissbourd and Rebecca Givens Rolland for Harvard Education Letter

“Love this! Forgive the pun. Fresh idea and very persuasive argument with good clear examples of approaches that are out there or approaches that could be tried (though I can see the debates heating up already...)”

“[The writers] provided fascinating research [on] our education system's failure to help students with one of life's major challenges.”

Third Prize: “Too Much 'Merit Aid' Requires No Merit” by Kevin Carey for The Chronicle of Higher Education

⋅ http://chronicle.com/article/Too-Much-Merit-Aid-Requires/137365/ “Really well written and accessible. Important issue. Enlightening.”

“Kevin Carey's analysis of merit aid's history and impacts is well-written and persuasive.”