Student Publications in High Schools

Abstract

In connection with the reorganization of the curriculum in terms of the demands of the out-of-school life of the pupils, it is significant to note the progress that has been made along the line of vital written work in the high school. This progress does not bear the earmarks of training of the belles lettres type so commonly offered in college preparatory courses. It shows rather the direct influences of the enriched materials of the reorganized content courses of the curriculum, the changed spirit of the school, and the results of participation in extra-curricular activities. Perhaps the most important single factor responsible for this stimulation of written English work is the provision of a ready medium of communication through high-school journalism. Ten or fifteen years ago few school papers were published, except in the larger high schools. Now student publications of some kind or other exist in practically all high schools. These publications differ widely in character. However, we find among them examples of most of the publications of the social and political world, with here and there an outstanding paper. It is the purpose of this article (i) to discuss briefly the major problems involved in the publication of high-school papers, (2) to evaluate their functions, and (3) to describe the types of publications generally found. Some people insist that every high school should have a paper. Many principals have acquiesced in this sentiment and have later regretted their action. Whether or not a high school should undertake the publication of a paper is a question of serious concern and one that should not be decided until it has been definitely ascertained that the major problems involved can be satisfactorily met. In the first place, some adult member of the school, capable and willing to assume the responsiblity of directing the project, must be secured for adviser. The success of the paper depends