We’re seeking highly skilled and organized journalists to join our dynamic, passionate team dedicated to telling the stories of public education. These reporters will cover multiple Kent ISD districts, using their skills in interviewing, writing, photography and video to showcase teaching and learning, human interest features, news, events and the myriad issues impacting schools.
School News Network (schoolnewsnetwork.org) is a unique education news site operated by experienced journalists. While editorially independent, we are supported by Kent ISD, and partners in our advocacy journalism. Our mission: to offer a window into our public schools.
Our specialty is in-the-classroom coverage, using student voice to elevate stories and illustrate how learning is taking place. Our journalists have strong observational and interviewing skills and must have the ability to tackle important education issues and present them in understandable, compelling ways.
Essential Job Qualifications Required:
- Bachelor’s degree in journalism or closely-related degree preferred, with additional years of experience without degree
- 3+ years of journalism experience in print and digital reporting preferred
- Ability to expertly interview, then write clear, compelling articles with photos and video to engage our audience
- Ability to use social media on various platforms in story-telling and engagement
- Ability to handle multiple stories and projects and still meet deadlines
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Strong writing, photography and video skills
- Driver’s license and reliable transportation required
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Cover news, features and issue stories in 5-6 Kent County school districts, producing several stories for School News Network per district per month, plus video, social posts and briefs, along with general assignments and work on joint issue stories
- Communicate regularly with district point people, administrators and educators
- Remain in close communication with managing editor and copy editors, and with colleagues for a joint story or special project
- Generate story ideas in districts by developing contacts, visiting schools, meeting with teachers and administrators, reading district communications/social
- Schedule and conduct interviews, cover events, write and file completed stories
- Shoot photos and videos while on assignment or as the assignment
- Use photos/video to create social media posts teasing and posting stories
- Participate actively in weekly news meetings and monthly staff meetings with ideas, suggestions, collaboration
- Attend occasional school board meetings
- Other special projects or duties as assigned
The above is intended to describe the general content of and the requirements for the performance of this position. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or requirements.
Experience: Journalism: 2 years (Required)
License/Certification: Driver’s License (Required)
Salary: $45,000-$50,000 per year
For further information click here.
