Illinois Press Association Accepting Cole Award Entries 

The Illinois Press Association’s “Best of the Press” contest is accepting entries through January 24, 2025 for items published in 2024. Included in the annual contest is the Cole Award for best school board coverage, sponsored by the Illinois Association of School Boards.  

The contest is open to Illinois Press Association dues-paying regular members. Winners will be announced during the IPA/IPF Annual Convention in East Peoria on June 5. 

The Robert M. Cole Award, named for the first full-time executive director of the Illinois Association of School Boards, recognizes outstanding coverage of education issues that emphasize the community’s connection with its local public school district. Judges evaluate entries for contribution to public understanding of local school governance and support for effective dialogue that helps the community and school board define major public policy issues. Judging criteria also include enterprise, depth of reporting, and clarity of writing.