Blogging Beyond

Despite the blogging issues I had prior to landing in Phoenix, I really like the idea of our reflections being available on the web in a format where we can share and offer feedback. This is a major part of the new evaluation system Hillsborough County Schools has adopted. Based on the Bill Gates Empowering Effective Teachers Grant, an ideal classroom has student led content and the teacher serves as the facilitator or coach. Any learning situation that requires the students to go beyond the basic discussion initiated by the instructor and can be seen by my Peer Evaluator or administration is like winning the lottery as far as points on my formal observation and annual reviews. The difficult part is creating discussion outside of the classroom.

My point? This could be a very effective tool for our student reporters to reflect on their work, share victories and ask how others handle situations that arise throughout their scholastic journalism careers. I plan to have this be a requirement for all my publication students next year and every year after. We struggle with communication on staff because we are spread out over three class periods and for some students, an every other day schedule.

I also think this is something that could be tried at the county, district and state level through our state’s press association.

Jill Burns

Robinson High School

Tampa, Fla.