DURHAM - Superintendent Dr. Robert Shaps and Principal Rebecca Noe are proud to announce that Oyster River High School (ORHS) senior Jahrie Houle was selected by the New England Scholastic Press Association (NESPA) to join the 2026 All New England High School Journalism Staff.  

Houle is one of 17 high school students selected, and one of two students in New Hampshire.  

NESPA selects candidates among top high school journalists working on newspapers, yearbooks, broadcasts, or literary magazines throughout the six New England states. 

"I am so honored to receive this award,” Houle said. “Journalism has impacted my life in such a profound way, and I'm incredibly grateful for all the opportunities I get to make an impact on my community through my writing." 

Houle is the co-editor in chief of award-winning ORHS student publication Mouth of the River (MOR). In this position, Houle is responsible for writing and editing printed and digital articles. She co-leads a team of 15 writers, designs team building activities, oversees graphic design, and online publication. 

ORHS English Teacher and Mouth of the River Club Advisor Shawn Kelly said, “Jahrie represents the best of student journalism, and journalism more broadly. Her genuine curiosity, combined with her excellent intellect and strong work ethic, have helped her thrive as a journalist and leader.” 

The extensive application process included the publication of a digital portfolio and a personal narrative. In her submission, Houle shared her desire to make a difference in the world and to leverage storytelling to build community.  

“We are extremely proud of Jahrie and her accomplishments,” said Principal Noe. Through her work with MOR, she and her peers consistently highlight important topics and help ensure that students’ voices are heard throughout the Oyster River community.” 

In 2024, Houle earned first place in the New Hampshire Press Association’s (NHPA) Best Published Feature award for her article “Deleting Social Media Didn’t Fix My Life.” Judges also recognized MOR with a first place General Excellence award in the High School Division. 

In 2023, MOR earned second place honors in the NHPA Distinguished Journalism Contest. 

For more information on Mouth of the River, visit https://mor.news.