I advise the Messenger publication online and in print as well as MHSNews (broadcast). In addition to the two production courses, I teach Writing & Reporting, Visual Journalism and Introduction to Digital Media Production.

Today’s focus is on re-energizing the staff after a deadline and before an even tighter deadline, so we are having a Mario Kart tournament. Play contributes to creativity as well as staff bonding and increased morale. Every week we do some sort of activity during our block period to encourage coverage groups to work together and to compete against each other in friendly competition. Sometimes the activities are curriculum based, such as scavenger hunts for story ideas or sources, but other times, like today, they are pure fun. We have a tally going of points each coverage group earns through each activity and the winner at the end of the semester will get bragging rights (and maybe a sweet treat). Features is in the lead and sports is last right now. I also have other stress relievers in the room for students to play before school, during lunch, after school, during Flex Time, etc. The staff has a table where they always have a puzzling going that they all work on. I also have coloring pages in the room and other toys I occasionally put out such as brain teasers, Rubik cubes, etc. We also have a snack/coffee bar that is regularly stocked.