Walter G. O’Connell Copiague High School students enrolled in Ms. Meidinger’s journalism class are gaining firsthand experience in what it means to think and work like professional journalists. Through hands-on instruction, students learn to analyze and critique news media while building foundational skills in writing, reporting, interviewing and editing.

The course, open to all high school students, introduces multiple styles of journalism, including digital, photo, broadcast and print media. It explores the basics of journalism ethics, media literacy and responsible reporting, while teaching how to conduct effective interviews and evaluate sources for accuracy and bias.

Many students in the program also extend their learning beyond the classroom by participating in Copiague Voice News, the school’s digital newspaper, where they help produce video segments and short public service announcements. This real-world experience allows students to collaborate creatively, apply technical skills and communicate important messages to the school community.

The journalism program empowers students to become informed media consumers and confident storytellers, preparing them for future academic pursuits and careers in communications, media and beyond.