Pictured L/R
Brooks Blair - Student Editor. Mrs. Karen Johnson - Sponsor,
Aleah Johnson - Student Editor, and Mr. Rob Kellam - Board President
Lawson High School Journalism Program Recognized Nationally for Excellence and Real-World Learning
During the February Board of Education meeting, the Lawson R-XIV Board spotlighted the high school journalism program, home of the nationally recognized Lanidrac yearbook, for its outstanding student achievement and commitment to Real-World Learning. The program equips students with high-level Market-Value Assets (MVAs), preparing them for future careers and continued academic success.
Students develop professional skills in AP-style writing, photography, editing, and graphic design while gaining hands-on experience with Adobe Creative Cloud, including InDesign, Photoshop, and Lightroom. They also strengthen essential workplace skills such as critical thinking, collaboration, communication, and problem-solving.
Recent honors include:
Featured in the Walsworth Gallery of Excellence and the President’s Collection
6th Place (Kansas City, Spring 2024) and 4th Place (Seattle, Spring 2025) in the NSPA/JEA Best of Show
Named a CSPA Crown Finalist, with recognition in New York City in Spring 2026
Beyond the classroom, students compete at MIJA State J-Day, the JEMKC Regional Contest, and represent Lawson at Missouri Girls State and Boys State.
Through authentic, competitive experiences, Lawson High School’s journalism program not only records history—it prepares students to shape it. #WeAreLawson