Middletown High School Newspaper Advisor

Policies

MHS Newspaper Advisor

MHS Newspaper Advisor

Under the direction of the High School Principal, the responsibility of the Newspaper Advisor is to be responsible for coordinating, editing, and supervising the production and distribution of the student newspaper.  He/she is responsible to teach all aspects of newspaper publication.  The Newspaper Advisor will supervise and coordinate the preparation, marketing, and distribution of a quality student newspaper.

Overall Responsibilities

There are a wide variety of responsibilities which come with being the Newspaper Advisor. The list below is not inclusive of all responsibilities, but is a general overview of expectations for the position. The majority of student activities require planning time and/or supervision beyond the school day, the stipend for the Advisor is in place for this reason. No additional pay and/or compensations days will be granted for work done in the capacity of the Advisor. The Advisor must follow all school district policies and regulations and must enforce the rules of Middletown Policies and Procedures, as well, Rhode Island General Law.

Duties and Responsibilities

·         Prepare a quality student newspaper for publication.

·         Counsel student newspaper staff on content and exercises authority to keep articles from being libelous, destructively offensive, or in poor taste as a reflection of the school and its student body.

·         Meet as frequently as needed with newspaper staff to guide and coordinate the production of issue.

·         Communicate with student body and encourage participation on newspaper staff.

·         Select the editors and the various staff for the newspaper.

·         Teach journalistic skills (photography, layout, copywriting, etc.).

·         Proofread all articles to enhance the journalistic skills, grammar and mechanics of the editors and student staff.

·         Manage production schedules to meet deadlines.

·         Edit and proofread all articles and advertisements.

·         File entry forms for appropriate journalism workshops and/contests.

·         Meet with Building Principal to review goals for each issue.

·         Be responsible for student newspaper staff in the performance of their duties.

·         Submit to Building Principal the theme, story, and photo ideas prior to production.  Obtain Principals’ approval for student newspaper spreads prior to printings.

·         Plan and use appropriate instructional and learning strategies, activities, materials, and equipment that reflect understanding of the learning styles and needs of students assigned.

·         Schedule, coordinate, and supervise all fundraising projects and follow School Committee Fundraising Policies.

·         Maintain accurate financial records regarding fundraising activities, and deposit fundraising monies and receipts with Student Activities Coordinator and Business Manager.

·         Supervise and assist students effectively.

·         Promote good public relations by personal appearance, attitude, and conversation.

·         Interact with Superintendent and/or School Committee and present information as requested.

·         Interact in a positive manner with staff, students, and parents.

·         Serve as a role model for students.

·         Counsel students on matters concerning school procedures, rules, and regulations.

·         Respond to routine questions and requests in an appropriate manner.

·         Make contacts with the public with tact and diplomacy.

·         Maintain respect at all times for confidential information, e.g., student records, etc.

·         Ensure safety of students.

·         Comply with Federal and State laws, R.I. Department of Education rules, and School Committee policies.

·         Guide editor and members with planning the year’s meetings and activities.

·         Create an environment conducive to learning and appropriate for the physical, social, and emotional development of students.

·         Good organizational/leadership skills.

·         Work with other school clubs and organizations in calendar scheduling.

·         Meet established deadlines.

·         Communicate with parents about events.

·         Perform other duties as assigned by the High School Principal or designee.

Qualifications

·         Valid R.I. Teaching Certificate (Preferred).

·         Documentation of a clear BCI/FBI report.

·         Ability to plan, organize, and coordinate school events.

·         Work effectively with large and small groups.

·         Basic first aid/CPR (Preferred).

·         Effective, active listening skills.

·         Organizational and problem solving skills.

·         Ability to communicate ideas and directions clearly and effectively both orally and in writing.

·         Proficient in spelling, proofreading, and the correct use of grammar.

·         Creative writing and publication skills substantiated by training and/or work experience.

·         Such alternatives to the above qualifications as Superintendent and/or School Committee may find appropriate.

First Reading - October 20, 2011

Second Reading and Approval – November 17, 2011