About Us
Originally published in 1968 as “the paper without a name,” the Parkway West “Pathfinder” soon acquired a title and became known as the newspaper of Parkway West High in Ballwin, Missouri. Under the leadership of Judy Lamb, the staff named the paper based on the dictionary definition of “Pathfinder,” meaning one skilled in leading or finding a way. Journalism students became skilled in page layout, gathering accurate information and writing newsworthy articles.
While the value of gathering accurate information and writing newsworthy articles has not changed, technology has exploded. In 2012, the Pathfinder staff decided to take the paper into the electronic age, launching its first online newspaper on October 10.
After the convergence of Parkway West’s newspaper and yearbook classes in 2014, the Pathfinder also welcomed work from yearbook students, the Convergent Media Writers of the paper. Today, the Pathfinder has evolved from a print newspaper into an award-winning online news program run by roughly 30 dedicated and passionate students.
Awards
2023-24
- Columbia Scholastic Press Association Silver Crown
2022-23
- Columbia Scholastic Press Association Silver Crown
2021-22
- National Scholastic Press Association Pacemaker
- Columbia Scholastic Press Association Gold Crown
2020-21
- National Scholastic Press Association Pacemaker finalist
- Quill & Scroll Blue and Gold Award for Writing Excellence
- School Newspaper Online Distinguished site status
2019-20
- National Scholastic Press Association Pacemaker finalist
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Columbia Scholastic Press Association Gold Crown
- School Newspaper Online Distinguished site status
2018-19
- National Scholastic Press Association Pacemaker
- Columbia Scholastic Press Association Gold Crown
- School Newspaper Online Distinguished site status
- Second place Best in Show at Anaheim National High School Journalism Conference
- Sixth place Best in Show at Chicago National High School Journalism Conference
2017-18
- Columbia Scholastic Press Association Silver Crown
- School Newspaper Online Distinguished site status
- Second place Best in Show at Dallas National High School Journalism Conference
- 10th place Best in Show at San Francisco National High School Journalism Conference
2016-17
- National Scholastic Press Association All-American Rating with Five Marks of Distinction
- Sixth place Best in Show at Seattle National High School Journalism Conference
2015-16
- Columbia Scholastic Press Association Gold Medal Finalists
- Eighth place Best in Show at Orlando National High School Journalism Conference
- Seventh place Best in Show at Los Angeles National High School Journalism Conference
Read the Pathfinder’s Editorial Policy HERE.
Send us a letter: 14653 Clayton Rd. Ballwin, MO 63011, Room #3000