Journalism is not just writing a story. It informs people about the things going on in their community. Journalism is not just taking pictures. A journalist needs to find reliable sources, conduct interviews, follow up on interviews, fact-check and more. Journalism at Hazelwood West is having a voice.
With the new phone ban in all Missouri schools, journalism has become much more important. West students archive memories forever. Documenting what students can no longer do themselves.
“Students telling the story is much more powerful,” associate to the journalism department, Terry Manker said.
Equipment is a key part of journalism. At West, they have recently gotten some new equipment, including MacBooks, new cameras, wireless microphones and a functioning office. These open up new possibilities for the department. The new cameras help get better coverage, wireless microphones give the ability to not only do interviews more easily, but they also have the opportunity to mic up athletes during a game or practice. A functioning office helps keep things organized as well as ensure that they keep all deadlines are met on time.
“I immediately started applying for cameras, the better our pictures and coverage is how we get more grasp from students.” Mackenzie Day said.
“Our equipment helps us inform the school and the community.” Nabel Hanandeh, 12, said.
The journalism department has a student-run newsletter. In August 2023, the school got a website to showcase students’ articles. Before the website, students’ articles only occasionally got featured in the newspaper each month. The student-run newspaper is not the only student-run program at West; there is also the yearbook. Students work hard all year to provide a yearbook for everyone at the end of the year. Students make sure everyone is featured in the yearbook and cover every sport and club. They always triple-check their sources and ensure every page is perfect.
“Mrs. Day has catered to each yearbook staff to improve it every year.” Hanandeh, 12, said.
Journalism at West has not only impacted the school and students, but also the community. The articles, yearbooks and stories show other students what the journalism department is about and why it is important; it encourages other students to join the program. The department is continuously building based on each year and what needs improvement.
The journalism department does more than just write. They tell the story of the school. Help tell everyone’s story by joining the journalism department.
