Proof of success for student efforts

Emmy awards sit on display at the Arizona Republic News offices.

It happens every year: A student in one of our classes asks, "Why? Why should I bother finding an extra source? Why should I try to investigate my story on school lunches any further than the menu?"As journalism teachers, it can seem like an obvious answer, but other times, it may seem to obvious to bother explaining.

As teachers of young adults, it is sometimes easy to forget that these kids need proof. They are (for the most part) less than ten years away from having the truth about Santa or reality TV explained to them.

They are skeptical.

What better foundation for a journalist is there than a fresh, skeptical mind?

When our students ask why they need another source or another interview, let us call on these types of pictures as the one included. At the Arizona Republic, Grammy awards stood as a testament to the appreciation that our country holds for journalistic efforts.

Our kids need proof. As journalists, can we blame them? If they trusted us at our word, wouldn't that be proof that we aren't informing them fully of the deception that exists in authority?

I know some may say that this is simply proof our kids are lazy, but if we appreciate them asking "why" and make them chase the answer, I feel we are teaching them the most valuable lesson a journalist can learn.

Bobby Oliver
San Pasqual High School
San Diego, California