Two high schools in Fairfax County, Chantilly High School and McLean High School, have been named among 26 schools across the United States to receive the 2026 First Amendment Press Freedom Award. Chantilly High has received this recognition for twelve consecutive years, while McLean High is being honored for the ninth year in a row.
The award highlights public and private high schools that demonstrate strong support for First Amendment rights and responsibilities of both students and teachers. A key criterion is that student-run media at these schools allow students to make all final decisions regarding content.
Winners will be recognized at an awards ceremony during the JEA/NSPA (Journalism Education Association-National Scholastic Press Association) Spring National High School Journalism Convention on April 16. The selection process was carried out by representatives from the JEA, NSPA, and Quill and Scroll International Honorary Society.
To compete for the award, schools were required to complete questionnaires filled out by an adviser and at least one student editor. Those who advanced had to submit responses from their principal as well as all media advisers and student editors. Semifinalists also provided copies of their published district, school, and media policies.
More information about the First Amendment Press Freedom Award can be found online.
