Walking through the halls of GHS, it is not uncommon to hear the squeaks of shoes on the gym floor or echoes of the choir practicing in harmony. The smell of paint drifts from the art hall and the sweet aroma of fresh-baked cookies wafts from the foods room. Sparks fly from the shop classes and students practice CPR on dummies in the CNA room. At the center of it all, in room 107, the journalism staff works hard to tell the stories of the nearly 1300 people that are here each day.
“I have gotten the opportunity to get to know more people around the school and community when I write stories, which is nice, because, yes, I am writing a story, but at the same time I am getting a little peek at someone’s life that other people don’t know about,” sophomore Harlee Boyd said.
The job of a journalist is to give a voice to someone who might otherwise go unheard. As well as to tell the stories that reach large audiences. A member of any of the three publications will say that the work is tough, but ultimately rewarding.
“I have formed multiple relationships since joining this class (yearbook),” junior yearbook editor Anna Gonsior said. “When we go to events, you get to meet new people, learn about their talents and create a bond with them.”
The friendships formed due to journalism stretch passed simply seeing each other in class. Former members who now attend Gretna East, as well as graduated members, still keep in touch with current students.
In the journalism program there is a place for everyone and something to gain from every aspect of it. While there are the obvious design, writing and photography skills to be achieved, there is also an underlying impact on most.
“Coming in as a freshman, even as a sophomore, I really didn’t know who I was and was afraid to speak up,” senior online editor Ava Fuller said. “This editor role especially has given me the confidence to use my voice.”
Hosting students of all different grades and experience levels, it is important that the journalism room be a welcoming, joyful place. The snack cabinet, comfortable seating and constant conversation are just a few of the things that make the J-room unique.
“These are the students that I want to be around the most, and I like the fact that this place is, I think, special to them too,” advisor Tim Kaldahl said. “The journalism room is different. It’s like backstage for theater kids or the band room for band kids. You need to have your place and you need to have your community.”