School newspapers: A key to democracy

Abstract

This paper discusses the importance of rebuilding journalism programs in high schools as a way to help preserve democratic ideals in our society at large. Since effective high school journalism programs teach students who serve as newspaper staff members to be responsible gatherers of information as well as discerning researchers, these student newspaper staff members are also more likely to apply a discriminating point of view or a perceptive mindset when they become adults. In addition, a strong high school newspaper program will engage the student body in open dialogue and give voice to the many different perspectives in any high school. As students learn to interact responsibly and wisely with their high school newspapers, they will learn how to become responsible and active participants in our democratic society as adults