As the annual Scholastic Journalism Week was celebrated this month, it is not just any regular anniversary. Scholastic Journalism Week was celebrated from Feb. 19 to Feb. 23. The Journalism Education Association (JEA) has helped journalism students by allowing them to share their stories and give information to people around the world. The JEA has helped millions of up and coming journalists better themselves as they begin their careers. The Scholastic Journalism Week aims to keep commemorating the freedom that the First Amendment gives, while also teaching and informing newer journalists along the way.
Scholastic Journalism Week serves as a platform to recognize and honor the pivotal role of student journalists in shaping communities and advancing the principles of free press and expression. This week-long event highlights the dedication, passion and talent of young journalists across the globe. The theme for this year’s celebration, “Here To Stay,” underlines the transformative impact of scholastic journalism on both creators and consumers of news. Through their reporting, students not only inform, but also spark conversations. Through challenges, the JEA fosters the idea of never giving up when impediments arise.
“It’s up to students to feel the responsibility of carrying on a democracy not just related to the first amendment, but related to all aspects of the government,” JEA President Ms. Valerie Kibler said.
As the nation commemorates Scholastic Journalism Week, they reaffirm the commitment they have to nurturing a culture of free expression, independent inquiry and responsible journalism. They celebrate the tireless dedication and passion of student journalists who continue to inspire with their courage, curiosity and unwavering commitment to the truth. As they empower voices and inspire minds for a more informed, enlightened and democratic society, the JEA continues to support the press.
This year’s Scholastic Journalism Week carries even greater significance as student journalists continue to navigate the challenges posed by the digital age and censorship. Despite these obstacles, they persist in their commitment to truth-telling and ethical journalism practices. Having a safe, fact-based information source is often underestimated, while the spread of misinformation continues to grow.
“To do the right thing, and I think everyone knows in their gut what the right thing is if you’re going to be a good Journalist; you can’t show whatever side you believe in and only report the side you believe in. You have to give both sides a fair shot,” Kibler said, when asked to give any advice she had to the new and inexperienced journalists around the nation.