North Springs High School Educators Earn Top State Journalism Honors

North Springs High School is celebrating a standout year in scholastic journalism, with multiple educators recognized by the Georgia Scholastic Press Association (GSPA) for their leadership, innovation, and impact on student media programs.

Veteran educator Adam Throne has been named GSPA’s 2026 Adviser of the Year, an honor recognizing a journalism teacher who goes above and beyond in supporting student media. Throne advises The Oracle news website and The Echo literary magazine and has spent more than two decades championing student voice, creative expression, and journalistic integrity.

In addition to leading award-winning North Springs publications, Throne played a key role in launching the Vox Podcast Initiative, securing grant funding and guiding students through its early development. His leadership extends statewide through his service on GSPA’s Teacher Advisory Council and his presentations at journalism conferences, including the Southern Interscholastic Press Association.

One nominator described Throne as “principled, student-centered, innovative, and deeply collaborative,” noting that his influence on students and colleagues is both profound and lasting.

Audio Video Technology & Film teacher John Wilkerson received the First Year Adviser Award, which honors educators with one to three years of experience who have made a significant impact on their student media programs.

Wilkerson brought professional expertise from his Emmy Award-winning career as a sports broadcaster into the classroom. Since joining North Springs High School, he has expanded the production of the North Springs News to twice-monthly broadcasts and encouraged students to pursue independent film and audiovisual projects. He also revitalized the school’s podcast efforts by launching the “Spartan Scoop,” a series of ongoing student-led discussions.

Colleagues note that Wilkerson fosters a collaborative environment, responds quickly to ideas, and empowers students to take ownership of their work while providing consistent guidance.

Nicole Motahari, adviser of the school’s Phalanx yearbook, has been honored with the Yearbook Turnaround Award, which recognizes an adviser and staff who have significantly improved the quality of their publication from the previous year. Under Motahari’s leadership, the Phalanx transformed from a club-style operation into a comprehensive journalism program. She worked closely with both staff and students to navigate editorial challenges while encouraging creativity and growth. Her efforts energized the program and elevated its reputation, including helping a student earn national recognition through the Journalism Week Poster Contest hosted by the National Scholastic Press Association.

The Phalanx staff has strengthened its commitment to high-quality journalism by focusing on accurate reporting, ethical storytelling, meaningful student voices, and purposeful visual coverage. Through stronger interviews, clearer writing, and intentional photojournalism, the publication now reflects deeper and more authentic stories of the school community. This recognition highlights both the program’s transformation and the students’ dedication to journalistic excellence.

“These honors reflect the strength of our programs and the dedication of our educators to empowering students,” said North Springs High School principal Scott Hanson. “Their work continues to inspire excellence, creativity, and meaningful engagement across our school community.”

About North Springs High School

North Springs High School is a premier comprehensive public school in Sandy Springs, GA, honored by the Georgia Department of Education as an AP Honors school in multiple categories. North Springs is home to magnet programs in STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math) and a Creative Arts Conservatory specializing in visual arts, music, theatre, and dance. It is the only STEAM High School in Fulton County Schools. These distinctive programs prepare students for success in college and beyond. Additionally, North Springs is the only school in North Fulton County to offer an Accelerated Career Diploma, equipping students with industry certifications and career-focused coursework for immediate employment or further education. With a commitment to academic excellence, career readiness, and artistic innovation, North Springs provides students with unparalleled opportunities to excel in their chosen paths