Joliet, IL – A Joliet West High School student is earning statewide recognition after placing among the top young journalists in Illinois.
Dalyla Martinez, a student journalist at Joliet West High School, earned third place in Newspaper Design at the Illinois High School Association State Journalism Finals held over the weekend at Heartland Community College. The achievement highlights both her individual talent and the strength of the school’s journalism program.
According to school officials, the competition took place Saturday, bringing together top student journalists from across Illinois who qualified through sectional competitions. Martinez advanced to the state level after earning first place in Newspaper Design at sectionals earlier this season.
“Dalyla’s achievement at the state level reflects her creativity, attention to detail, and commitment to excellence in journalism,” said Jenn Galloy, a journalism instructor at Joliet West. “We are incredibly proud of her and all of our students who represented Joliet West so well throughout the season.”
Joliet West High School also recognized several other students who qualified for the state competition, underscoring the program’s depth and continued success. Those students included Alaina Potocki, Aspen Ramirez, Nevaeh Walker, Emmett Kelly, Courtesy Griffin, Ava Enderli, and Maia James.
The IHSA State Journalism Finals serve as one of the premier showcases for high school media students in Illinois, featuring competitions in writing, design, photography, and broadcast journalism.
Martinez’s third-place finish caps off a strong year for the Joliet West journalism program, which continues to produce award-winning student work and provide hands-on media experience.
School officials say the recognition reflects the dedication of both students and staff, as well as the continued support for student journalism within the district.
