By: The Senator staff

The Senator staff has been hard at work this semester producing work for our peers to read, so let us take a look at some of our highlights! This semester in newspaper, the Springfield High School staff has worked collectively to create individual pieces of writing. As a class, we have brainstormed, discussed and collaborated to form articles for Springfield High families, teachers and students to read. Articles we have written span from Springfield High’s friendly ghost Rachel, the festivities of Homecoming week, the best way to spend your holidays in Springfield and even trending pop culture events. As you continue reading, learn what makes our newspaper class special and why you should join.

Throughout the years, the SHS newspaper has evolved through the hardships of COVID and new technology. Sophomore Delani Beagles, a new member of the newspaper community,  explains, “I feel like the SHS newspaper has helped me adapt to a new writing style and experiment with a more interactive and challenging format. As students, we are usually restricted to writing in a formal style. In newspaper, it feels more ‘free-ranged’ for lack of better words.” Along with Beagles, fellow staff member Olivia McGuire, a junior, says, “Being able to rely on a community of great writers has been a complete game changer. So many of our articles have been a collection of ideas to ultimately make something we’re all proud of.” Students from all walks of life can come together and collaborate as a cohesive unit. From cheerleaders to student council members, everyone is able to feel as though they have a voice.

Unlike other schools, the SHS newspaper is a class during the school day, not an after-school club. In order to join The Senator Newspaper staff, students must submit applications to newspaper adviser Ms. Negele. Newspaper contributors all agree that the atmosphere of the class allows their creativity to flourish. Senior Twyla Vlahon, a veteran writer and editor of The Senator, says “I joined because I already love to write and I stayed because the relaxed pace means we can ask for advice on articles, focus on other schoolwork or just vent. Sometimes, we spend the whole class period talking through another member’s personal problems. I know Ms. Negele and everybody else in Newspaper has got my back, both in school and in life.” New member Nina McEuen, a junior, concurs, stating, “I joined the newspaper because it allows me to express myself on topics that I am passionate about.” Another first-year member Sam Hoffek, a junior, states “Ms. Negele approached me about Newspaper and said I’d be a good addition to the class. I’ve enjoyed my recruitment and I’m looking forward to another semester.” 

Although we have grown so much already this year, we still have so many more ideas and articles we are ready to put out. This year, we have many new members from a variety of grades which allows us to have different perspectives and a diversity of ideas. Some articles coming out in 2024 include the new school renovations, new restaurants and businesses opening and so much more! Newspaper class allows students to grow as writers in a fun and motivating environment, including Ms. Negele providing constructive revisions that help students expand their writing skills. We encourage students to join the newspaper staff and to watch out for our upcoming website articles and maybe even a real print newspaper we will be working towards next semester!

Photo courtesy of Ms. Negele