Senior Alan Tai looks down at a computer during an El Estoque work session. Tai was named the California High School Journalist of the Year. Tai is the second student from Monta Vista High School in Cupertino to receive this top honor. Photo: Jami Lim with permission

In her fourth-period journalism class at Los Alamitos High School, Bella Kim (right), editor-in-chief of the Griffin Gazette, reviews edits with a staff writer (left). During class, she constantly moves around the classroom, checking in with staffers and editing articles. She often sits with students to talk through revisions for their stories. “Bella is always thinking about how she can create opportunities for the group publication and individual growth,” her advisor, Lori Franzen, wrote in a recommendation letter. “She is invested in creating opportunities for her beginning journalists and offering critical feedback which has proven central to their successes.” Photo: Aiden Shellhammer, with permission

Editor-in-chief Holden Lee, right, coaches staff writer Mereym Orazova on her story about the death of a beloved local donkey, Perry. Lee said one of his favorite parts of being an EIC is helping writers find the essence of a story and then working with them to clearly communicate that with their audience. “In this story Meryem had some great interviews and had done some great research, but it seemed to be missing a strong angle. In working with her, we learned that Perry inspired the animators of the movie ‘Shrek’ when they were creating the character Donkey for that film. That discovery really helped her focus in on a strong focus for the piece.” Provided photo

“Through my lens – Adjusting my Canon T7i camera, I focus on capturing the energy of the streets,” wrote Daniel Ruiz. “Photography is more than a passion, it is how I tell stories, preserve emotions and frame life in a way that speaks beyond words.” Provided photo

“My computer had been hit bluntly by a full Hydroflask, thus resulting in a broken screen,” wrote Grace Gehrman. “I had a deadline, however, so I powered through — pun intended.” Provided photo