Bethany’s official news publication has moved to the world wide web.
Sightline has taken the place of The Reflector, a printed news source for the school’s students which was cancelled last year. Heading this new media project are Michael Yeakey, who oversees the journalism and written aspect of the publication, and Benji Hurst, who focuses on website design and layout.
“Our hope,” said Yeakey, “is that we can develop a site where we can share news… and gain more student involvement in the activities of the school.”
One way that Bethany is increasing student involvement is through the new Digital Communications class, available to all high school students. Students enrolled in “DigiCom,” as it has been nicknamed, are automatically staff members of the Sightline publication, getting opportunities to write articles, edit the work of others, and assist in website creation and modification.
“I truly feel this is a student-led operation,” claimed Hurst, “even though [Michael] and I facilitate and help when needed. Now that the kids are understanding our Sightline purpose and vision, the class is taking off quickly.”
The Digital Communications class has spent the past few weeks studying their WordPress account, the online host of the new publication. Class periods have also included time to critique the work of professional journalists and dream up ideas for the future content of the website.
One of the advantages of an online news source is the wide range of material that can be included, much of which was impossible with the printed Reflector. Photo essays, videos, and links to other news sources are among the many possibilities that the Sightline staff hopes to add to the website’s content. Bethany’s Social Media group will be particularly involved in producing content, with many of their promotional and student videos being added to the site.
Even with this strong pool of ideas, however, many are questioning whether or not Sightline will actually be of interest to Bethany students and others within the community, such as parents and alumni. Can a website generate as much traffic and talk as a printed newspaper that was literally placed directly in front of students?
The Sightline staff has closely examined this issue and, though they will make adjustments as needed, are looking to draw the Bethany community to the website through Facebook, emails, and word of mouth.
As the new publication continues moving forward, there is much enthusiasm in the air. Staff members have begun putting articles up on the website and establishing permanent job positions, while their class period morphs from one of learning and studying to one of worktime and creative brainstorming.
“This is a fun, new experience,” said Hurst, “and I’m excited to see what they can do with it.”
~ Jesse Bontreger