News

West Chicago Community High School senior Romeo Alfaro has been named to the 2024 Illinois Journalism Education Association (IJEA) All-State Journalism Team, one of the most competitive honors available to high school journalists in the state of Illinois.

Alfaro is among 19 students statewide selected for the 2024-25 team — the largest All-State class in the 20-year history of the award. Chosen from more than a dozen schools, these students represent the best in scholastic journalism based on their writing, leadership, service, and commitment to ethical, impactful storytelling.

A first-year member of the Wildcat Chronicle, Alfaro has quickly established himself as a standout contributor. From writing and video production to mentoring peers and co-hosting the school’s weekly video broadcast, wtw WEGO?, he brings energy, empathy, and technical precision to everything he does.

“Romeo is the kind of student every journalism program hopes for,” Wildcat Chronicle adviser Leslie Fireman said. “He is not only a thoughtful and talented journalist, but also an incredibly generous teammate. He uplifts the work of others, shares his knowledge freely, and always goes above and beyond to support the Chronicle’s mission.”

This spring, Alfaro’s work has earned additional state and regional recognition:

• He received second place in IJEA’s Division 3 Best Alternative Storytelling category for an October 2024 episode of wtw WEGO?, which he co-produced.
• He also earned third place in Best In-Depth News Story for his feature “Masculinity Reimagined: A Deep Dive into Modern Conceptions,” praised by judges as “well researched” and full of “great interviews.”
• Most recently, Alfaro earned a Blue Ribbon for review writing at the 2025 Northern Illinois Scholastic Press Association (NISPA) conference, the organization’s highest distinction.

“I never imagined journalism would become such a huge part of my life,” Alfaro said. “I’ve learned how to connect with people, how to tell meaningful stories, and how to be part of something bigger than myself. Being named to the All-State Team means a lot, especially because I’ve worked so hard and found something I truly love doing.”

Alfaro and the other All-State honorees will be celebrated at a luncheon on Saturday, June 7, at the Illinois Press Foundation headquarters in Springfield.

About the Illinois Journalism Education Association (IJEA):
The IJEA promotes and supports scholastic journalism throughout Illinois. The All-State Journalism Team celebrates high school seniors who demonstrate exceptional talent, character, and dedication to student media. Selection is based on a combination of journalistic achievement, leadership, and service.