Wayne City High School Journalism class spent much of January preparing for the annual SISPA Winter Conference. The Southern Illinois School Press Association, also known as SISPA, hosts the conference to recognize journalism students for their achievements and to give students on-site competition opportunities in the areas of writing, photography and other areas.

Wayne City has attended the conference for several years, but for many students, the 2026 event will be their first journalism-specific competition. Journalism student Kaylee Bullard said she is looking forward to the experience.

“It’s something entirely new to me, so I’m excited to see everything that’s there and learn whatever I can,” Bullard said.

Advisers are also anticipating the event. Journalism teacher Kelli Keen has been closely involved in helping students prepare their work for competition.

“I enjoy watching students’ work get the recognition it deserves,” Keen said.

In addition to preparing for the conference, students have continued developing the school’s yearbook and organizing thousands of photos. Preparation included completing registration, selecting and submitting contest entries, and ensuring cameras and other equipment were ready for use.

After weeks of preparation, members of the 2026 journalism class are looking forward to the conference and hope the experience will contribute to future success in journalism projects throughout the year.