By neglecting to use the actual word “journalism” in the new career pathways and clusters funding model, many are concerned that journalism will not be funded and will in turn be eliminated altogether by districts.

Four years in the making, the new career pathway and clusters model is gradually being put into effect to phase out the previous VE-2 model, or vocational funding model. For most classes falling under the new model, such as computer and family and consumer science classes, changes will occur in both curriculum and name.

However, under the new model, there is an opportunity for journalism related classes to be taught under different names. Beginning Journalism classes may fit into a pathway and become a part of the Information and Technology cluster. Confusion surrounds the terminology of this model and many believe that because the term “journalism” is not specifically mentioned in the new model, it will not be funded.

Through the confusion, the end result must be that journalism receives funding in every school district in Kansas, regardless of how a district chooses to fit it into the model. The skills learned through journalism classes are invaluable to every staff member, regardless of their career in the future.

Journalism allows for students to gain essential life skills while developing their writing abilities and creativity. Beginning Journalism students learn about the consequences of libel and the ethics of journalism in order to maintain credibility as a reporter. Students on the newspaper or yearbook staffs learn responsibility, time management and how to effectively balance schoolwork.The pressures make journalism more of a job than a class.

These skills will be useful in any future profession, and their value shouldn’t be underestimated.

Most importantly, student journalists represent the voice of the student body. Having a monthly newspaper publication allows for students to be featured and school news to be spotlighted. The Kansas City Star doesn’t print stories on the AP Studio Art class or students dealing with difficult issues such as depression or bullying. This is real life to students, and it can’t come from anywhere else.

Kansas student journalists receive more freedoms than other states’ student journalists; Kansas administrators cannot censor any stories, allowing student journalists to report on controversial topics that need to be covered.

This state epitomizes true journalism in high schools, and districts should take it upon themselves to make sure journalism is taught in every school, regardless of name or curriculum. Our district seems committed to ensuring journalism in the future, but many others may look at the model and cut out journalism.

All local districts must realize that this model does not eliminate all possibility of journalism classes. Our district should be the model to districts across the state to work journalism into the new curriculum and strive to help other districts to also reflect the importance of journalism in their programs.