Eleven journalism students from Wakeland were recognized for their hard work. On April 17, as they competed at the 2026 Frisco ISD District Broadcast Competition. This year, competitors were excellent, and additional judges needed to be called in at the last minute to break ties.

Wakeland placed in the top three in seven different categories. Manya Gupta placed first in News Competition Promo, and competed in Audience Engagement. Also placing first was Will Snook with Documentary Photo, the first time the contest has been offered. It was also the first time Will competed in the district contest although he has been a team photographer for several Wakeland teams for two years.  

Snook said he was proud to represent the school in this contest for the first time and a lot of emotions came up when his name was called. “Sick dude!” said Snook, “It was pretty awesome sauce.”

Manya Gupta, 3rd year WinTV student, also won first place in her submission for News Competition Promo. 

This competition wasn’t just getting awards; journalism students got the chance to listen to feedback from experts. 

“I learned a lot of things from the different speakers who were there,” said first-place winner and senior Will Snook. “I think getting feedback and criticism from someone who has done it for 20 years has really helped with my progress.”

Journalism students work all year to build their skills, and brought home two first place, one second place, and four third place awards. With the move to 6A next year, broadcast and journalism students are ready to make an impression at next year’s competition. 

Several students placed in multiple events: Manya Gupta (two events), Will Snook (two events, including first place), Caroline Angle (three events), and Eric Cansler (three events across pre-submit and live competition).