Essex, Missouri - Richland R-1 School recently had four students take home national photography awards from the JEA/NSPA National Convention in Chicago, Illinois.

Senior Liza King, second to left, was awarded Superior in the Photography Portfolio category, designating her one of the best high school photographers in the nation.  King also taught a journalism class while at the convention.

Junior Jason Pinkley, left, took Excellent in Themed Photography, junior Allison Jones received Excellent in Sports Action Photography, and senior Kate Wyman was awarded Excellent in General Spot News Photography.

Of the 384 overall national competitors in the photography write-off competition, less than 15% received either a rating of either Superior or Excellent. 

Photo by Kyle Carter / Richland Schools