Carmel High School’s 2008-09 HiLite newspaper has earned a “superior” overall rating from the Indiana High School Press Association. Based on issues published from August 2008 until January 2009, it is the first award for the current print newspaper staff; other organizations like the Columbia Scholastic Press Association, Quill & Scroll and the National Scholastic Press Association will not release their lists of 2008-09 winners until next school year.

Additionally, Carmel earned “superior” ratings in 10 of the 13 total individual categories, earning additional “special distinction” in two of those areas: Overall content and coverage and art.

In the comments annotated throughout the 16-page critique book, the judge wrote, “I thoroughly enjoyed visiting the hallways and fields of your school through the HiLite. It is clear that you have an effective system from story idea compilation to completion. Keep up the good work…Celebrate in your successes and continue in your awesome responsibility.”

All newspapers rated as either “excellent” or “superior” qualify as finalists for the IHSPA Hoosier Star Award, the organization’s highest honor comparable to a State championship in athletics. Since it has qualified for this distinction, the 2008-09 HiLite will be evaluated once again by a separate judge. The 2008-09 Hoosier Star winners will be announced at the IHSPA fall convention on Oct. 23. Since 2000, the HiLite has earned Hoosier Stars in 2000, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2006 and 2007.

Senior Amy Flis is the editor in chief of the HiLite. Seniors Cathy Chen and Brittani Wheeler serve as managing editors. Jim Streisel is the faculty adviser for the newspaper.