As a writer and a teacher, my goal is to inspire my readers and students. I have always had the ultimate belief in the importance of journalism and its role in protecting the First Amendment.
This was never more evident than when I joined more than 6,000 journalism students and their advisers for the National High School Journalism Convention in Washington, D.C. Nov. 22 and 23.
Talking with young people as a speaker and in critique sessions, I saw creative, innovative, passionate and dedicated young people – all on a mission to tell the stories of their communities.
Receiving my Master Journalism Educator certification and helping judge the more than 2,000 entries, I was gratified to collaborate with like-minded professionals, who continually step up as leaders, take risks, and always learn – mostly from those we have the privilege of teaching.
The convention both celebrated and challenged a real sense of mission – to protect and enhance students’ voice.
This generation will define media professions by creating ones that don’t even exist at this moment. They are developing 21st Century skills and leading the way in continuing a mission started with Zenger and “The Birth of The First Amendment.”
I left the convention with a deep sense of thankfulness, even more hopeful and determined to continue to support this next generation of journalists because I know the future is in good hands.
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