Ever wonder who those kids are who are always taking pictures at sporting events or interviewing kids in the hallway? Those kids are part of a class called Convergence Journalism.
Sophomore Carson Brandt is on the yearbook staff, and he shared his journalism perspective.
“It’s fun going out to interview everyone. Mr. Brady is a cool teacher. In fact, he’s actually really funny at times. Journalism is a great way to add your splash of unique interests and designs to a page that others may enjoy as well,” Brandt said.
Journalism is a class where students tell the stories of South High and publish those stories in the yearbook and newspaper. In news reporter style, students interview others and tell well-written stories about topics, whether their information is going into the yearbook or newspaper.
Senior Olivia Stack is also on the yearbook staff.
“Journalism is the best way to interact in school. Mr. Brady engages with us a lot and we aren’t misguided. The journalism’s Instagram page is my partner and I’s best way to promote the class or even the @patriotpride76. I love when students see me interviewing and ask what it’s for. I say take Convergence Journalism because it’s worth your time,” Stack said.
Recently, journalism teacher Gavin Brady said has seen a decrease in the amount of students taking his journalism classes. Journalism classes at South High include Photojournalism, and Convergence Journalism 1-4. Photojournalism focuses solely on photography, while Convergence Journalism 1 teaches the basics of journalism. Students in Convergence Journalism 2-4 work on the school yearbook and newspaper. Students can earn honors credit in Convergence Journalism 2-4.
Senior Alaina Zerega is also on the yearbook staff.
“Mr. Brady is very knowledgeable. He always persuades us to check in with upcoming events as he assigns current events and CNN10 because he knows it’ll be beneficial for us to know what’s happening in the world and around us. I think journalism is a different skill of writing that people should consider,” she said.
Many South students may have the talents and qualities that work well for journalism, however, they may not know how to get involved.
Brady said journalism classes are different from a lot of other classes at South High.
“My favorite thing about journalism is that we produce products for our audience. I wish students knew how valuable this class was, whether for their transcript or just having fun. We’re the opposite of creative writing. We aren’t being creative. In class, we’re presenting just facts,” he said.
One unique aspect to Brady’s classes is that he has parties four times a year to celebrate students making their deadlines. He said putting together a 295-page yearbook is a big accomplishment. In addition, students in his classes can get inducted into Quill and Scroll–a national journalism honor society.
“I wish that students paid more attention to the amazing offerings at South when they register for classes,” Brady said.
Convergence Journalism teacher Gavin Brady is located in Room 1537 for more information. The school newspaper can be read online at www.psouthtreaty.com.
