The Horizon student newspaper at Lynbrook High School continued its long-standing tradition of excellence last weekend, earning multiple honors at the New York Press Association’s annual awards.
Students and alumni from the program were recognized across several categories, highlighting the strength of both writing and visual storytelling within the publication. Justin Williams earned third place for sports writing, while Cassandra Levinson took third place in her category. Aidan Pearsall received second place for photography, and Anabella Errico earned second place for graphics.
“I was super surprised to hear I won an award!” Pearsall said. “I am grateful for the opportunities Lynbrook High School athletics have given me, and Horizon for always using my images to add detail to their amazing stories!”
For Jessica Sanders, the paper’s advisor, the recognition reflects years of dedication from both current students and graduates.
“Horizon has had a really long-standing, award-winning tradition at the school,” Sanders said. “Our district and community take pride in it, and the administration continues to support us. That’s what allows us to have continuous success.”
Sanders, an English teacher who has worked in the district for 21 years and served as Horizon’s advisor for 19, said the program’s legacy plays a major role in its culture. The newspaper itself has existed for over a century, something students are reminded of as they join.
“It becomes their high school family,” she said. “It’s more than a club—some of these kids make it a very big part of their high school identity.”
That sense of community is echoed by student editors. Jackson Bowler, a junior and one of the print editors-in-chief, said the connections he has made through the paper are just as meaningful as the work itself.
“The community that we have is amazing,” Bowler said. “I love connecting and meeting with new people on the paper, and I love seeing how everything comes together at the end.”
Senior Sophia Woods, also a print editor-in-chief, described Horizon as a close-knit group that extends beyond the classroom.
“It’s like a small family,” Woods said. “We spend so much time together in and out of school, and it really makes you want to work hard.”
Students contribute to both print and online editions, with five to six print issues published each year in addition to digital content. The process requires a strong commitment, with staff members meeting regularly and working several days a week on writing, editing and layout.
“Being part of Horizon is like a varsity club,” Sanders said. “It’s a big time commitment, but the students who are dedicated really take pride in what they do.”
Sanders noted that some of this year’s award winners are already continuing their journalism journeys beyond high school. Williams, now a freshman at St. John’s University, is studying journalism and broadcasting sports, while Levinson is attending the University of British Columbia.
Current students are also leaving their mark. Pearsall’s photography has become a staple of school coverage, while Errico’s artistic contributions highlight the importance of visual storytelling alongside written work.
For Sanders, seeing students recognized on a statewide level remains one of the most rewarding parts of her role.
“I’m just so proud of these kids,” she said. “They work so hard, and it’s always very special to see them acknowledged in this way.”
