Growing Up in Santa Cruz won four big awards in a national contest sponsored by the Parenting Media Association, a trade group that reaches six million family and parent magazine readers each month in the U.S., Canada and Australia. The competition was judged by the journalism department of the University of Missouri.

We took top honors for humor, with our wonderful monthly cartoon by Patty Benson. Here’s what the judges said:
“This illustrated column uses multiple visual devices as a framework for funny observations that most moms will recognize from their own lives. The approach is hilariously on point as well as entertaining and original.”

Our teen writer, Grace Timan, of Mount Madonna School, won a silver award for her article, “Youth Writer on the Pandemic.”
“Written by a high school junior, this essay provides fascinating insight into the painful experience of going to school during the pandemic. But this piece is more than a unique perspective; it also delivers strong, descriptive writing, with the assured style of a natural storyteller.”

Lisa Catterall’s groundbreaking series, “Behind the Teacher’s Desk,” which examines her experience teaching at Mount Madonna School won a silver award:
“This series gave families and community members a glimpse into the life and challenges of an educator. Each article in the series shed light on a different topic – from creating a place of joy in a classroom, to coaching a student in a math competition, Catterall engaged readers with a behind-the-scenes view of what it means to be a teacher.”

Finally, designer and managing editor Christy Shults was recognized for her layout skills in our Table of Contents:

“The half-page ad forces a minimalist approach. The three lead items include artwork, followed by a long text list. The typography is clean and serves the situation.”

We are so proud of our staff and community contributors and look forward to winning more next year!! We are always looking for more content from you!