High school journalism serves as a cornerstone of democratic engagement, equipping students with the skills necessary to critically analyze information, articulate their thoughts, and engage with their communities.

New York, N.Y. — When I was in high school during the 1970’s, my role as the editor of our local high school newspaper provided me with invaluable experiences. I was not only able to develop my journalistic skills but also became a member of the Quill and Scroll Honor Society, an organization dedicated to recognizing and nurturing high school journalists. Additionally, I attended journalism camps and media workshops across the Midwest, which played a significant role in shaping my future career and even helped me secure a place in college.

My experience with student journalism led me to become Editor-and-chief of this publication, write for The New York Times, Huffington Post, and Daily Kos, and teach students from California to Jamaica to India about young global leadership, development – and journalism.

The significance of these experiences cannot be overstated. High school journalism is more than just an extracurricular activity; it is a training ground for the future leaders of our society.

It teaches students how to gather information, think critically, and present their findings in a clear and impactful way. These are skills that transcend the classroom and are essential in any career path, whether in journalism, law, politics, or business.

Colleges today are inundated with thousands of applicants boasting perfect GPAs.

To differentiate among these high-achieving students, admissions officers look closely at extracurricular activities, seeking evidence of leadership, initiative, and impact. Serving as the editor of a high school newspaper is a prime example of such leadership. It demonstrates not only academic excellence but also a commitment to civic engagement, a capacity for managing teams, and an ability to influence and inform public opinion.

Similarly, holding positions like student council president or student body president marks a student as someone who is prepared to lead, advocate for their peers, and handle significant responsibilities—qualities that move these applicants to the top of the admissions pile.

Many famous Americans launched their careers through their high school newspapers.

For example, Bob Woodward, who later became famous for his investigative reporting on the Watergate scandal, was the editor of his high school newspaper. Barbara Walters, a pioneering television journalist, also honed her skills as a high school journalist. These early experiences laid the foundation for their illustrious careers and their significant contributions to American society.

The Quill and Scroll Honor Society, of which I was a proud member, plays a crucial role in recognizing and fostering the talents of high school journalists. Founded in 1926 at the University of Iowa, Quill and Scroll encourages and rewards excellence in journalism and scholastic achievement.

Membership in this society is a mark of distinction and a testament to a student’s dedication to the craft of journalism. It also connects young journalists with a network of like-minded peers and professionals, providing them with opportunities to further develop their skills and make a lasting impact.

In today’s world, where misinformation and fake news are rampant, the role of high school journalism has never been more critical. As the New York City Council debates whether all high schools should be required to have a student newspaper, the answer is clear: yes. Journalism is a prerequisite for a free society and a thriving democracy. It is one of the strongest tools we have to combat authoritarianism and develop the next generation of global leaders.

Student newspapers serve as a platform for young people to express their views, challenge the status quo, and hold those in power accountable. By encouraging high school journalism, we are investing in the future of our democracy and ensuring that the voices of our youth are heard.

Examples of Famous High School Newspaper Editors:

• Bob Woodward: Investigative journalist who became famous for his work on the Watergate scandal.
• Barbara Walters: Iconic television journalist known for her work on programs like 20/20 and The View.
• Gwen Ifill: Renowned journalist and television newscaster, who was also involved in her high school newspaper.
• George Stephanopoulos: Chief Anchor at ABC News and former White House Communications Director, who got his start in journalism as a high school newspaper editor.
• John F. Kennedy: 35th President who was also involved in his high school newspaper, which helped him develop the communication skills that would later define his presidency.

Power of the Pen: Why Every High School Needs a Newspaper (Aug. 16, 2024)

We believe so firmly in Student Journalism that the J. Luce Foundation that promotes Young Global Leadership and publishes The Stewardship Report, is willing to award an e-Internship to deserving and promising student journalists in New York City and anywhere in the world who would like to spend five hours per week writing for The Stewardship Report, with a byline possible for outstanding stories.

#HighSchoolJournalism, #StudentNewspapers, #DemocracyInAction, #QuillAndScroll, #YoungGlobalLeaders, #FreedomOfPress, #JournalismMatters, #Internship, #YoungGlobalLeadership, #JLuceFoundation, #NewYorkCity, #HighSchoolStudents, #GuidanceCounselors

Tags: High School Journalism, New York City Council, Student Newspapers, Quill and Scroll Honor Society, Democracy, Leadership Development, Bob Woodward, Barbara Walters, Journalism Education, Freedom of the Press, College Admissions, Extracurricular Activities

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