On Tuesday, Oct. 6, a few of Chagrin Falls High School’s journalism students traveled to Kent State University for the Ohio Scholastic Media Association (OSMA) Conference, a workshop designated for young journalists to learn more about the field and to gain valuable skills to aid in creating a professional publication.
The Ohio Scholastic Media Association was founded more than 60 years ago, existing to represent journalism students and give them a voice. Over the years, OSMA has provided groups of journalism teachers and students funding and key legislation to aid in validating students’ publications.
Along with 200 other students from 16 schools in Northeastern Ohio, the group, accompanied by Journalism and Language Arts teacher Angie Jameson, moved through various sessions regarding topics such as prior review, article ideas and smartphone apps for photography.
“It’s a great opportunity for journalism students at all levels to interact and learn with journalism students and educators across Northeast Ohio,” said Jameson. “Students have the opportunity to select sessions that best fit their needs for an individualized learning experience.”
Popular sessions included “Grammar Slammer,” “Making All The Pieces Fit” and “Principle Matters.” The first session focused on improving students’ grammar and writing style, while “Making All The Pieces Fit” discussed the key aspects of any article, and how to create a complete publication. Finally, “Principle Matters” helped students to understand their rights as young journalists in a school setting.
Article submitted by Dylana Felton, Junior, Chagrin Falls High School
