Grade 8: Start Spreading the News on Graland's Student-Curated Newscast

Several years ago, Graland Drama Teacher Dan O'Neill (along with Director of Innovative Learning Marty Twarogowski) had the idea to start a newscast class so that Middle School students could create and share their very own segments with the school community. Right from the start, Mr. O'Neill received all the support and resources he needed to launch his newscast class. "I was totally speechless," Mr. O'Neill shared. "Not only was I told immediately that this was a good idea, but the administration and my colleagues got right to work on finding the equipment we needed to get started." 

At Graland, the newsroom is a place for students to connect with their community, explore their interests, and find their voice. "The purpose of the class is to put out Graland created newsroom content for the Middle School to look at during advisories and special assemblies," Mr. O'Neill said. "It is a place for students to have a voice on camera to show other students what they are interested in, such as sports, stocks, fashion, pet pics, or even snow days and who gets to decide when school is canceled and why. It is a chance for them to speak for themselves." 

Several Grade 8 students, such as Grey G. and Drew S., agreed with Mr. O'Neill that the newscast class is where they have not only developed journalism skills but got comfortable with being themselves. "Even though I was shy at first, I've always liked acting and wanted to try being on camera. Now I like being on camera because I don't speak out a whole lot normally, so this is my way of speaking out," Grey shared. Similarly, Drew stated, "I wanted to take this class because I like talking about events and being an anchor. When I first started, I was a newbie, and my classmates had to teach me everything. But as we got more into the year, I got more comfortable in the space. I felt more ready this year because of everything I learned, which set me up for success. I think my confidence has grown a lot, and I'm not as nervous on camera."

Through extracurricular offerings such as newscast, Graland students will continue to have the opportunity to explore new interests and skillsets. We can't wait to watch the eighth graders' talent grow as they further challenge themselves and chase their passions throughout the year.