The bell rings, and students at Maugham Elementary School eagerly flood the halls, their backpacks bouncing as they rush toward the carpool pick-up line. But just down the corridor, in a tucked-away classroom, a different kind of excitement swells. A group of young journalists leans in, their enthusiasm palpable as they prepare to pitch, explore, and develop their next story idea for the school’s newly introduced student newspaper, Who, What, When & Maugham.
Launched this past winter, the after-school newspaper club offers elementary students the opportunity to develop their communication skills using writing techniques that call for collaboration, critical thinking, and research. Who, What, When & Maugham is structured much like a traditional print newspaper; students choose topics and conduct interviews with classmates, teachers, and community members to gather the information needed for their articles. They are encouraged to experiment with various styles, including opinion, narrative, and non-fiction writing, and to engage with subjects that matter to them. From exploring “The Safest Way to Jump on the Skincare Trend” to “Interviewing Dr. Ferrara,” the school principal, Maugham students are learning to ask tough questions and engage in conversations that reflect the diverse interests and concerns of their generation.
Each month, a new issue arrives as a bright white packet, embellished with playful graphics and vibrant fonts and designs. Inside, stories span topics ranging from social media and music to sports and community events, each capturing the energy and creativity of the newspaper’s young team of authors.
Ultimately, the students involved are learning more than just how to write a good story. They’re learning to ask thoughtful questions during interviews, collaborate with and listen to their peers’ perspectives, and meet deadlines–all key skills that will serve them well beyond the classroom. Along the way, they’re building confidence, educating themselves about current events and controversies, and discovering the importance of clear and compelling communication.
Beyond providing a platform for those directly involved in the production process, the newspaper fosters a unique sense of community within Maugham Elementary School. Who, What, When & Maugham caters to and engages all grade levels. More sophisticated features are balanced with crossword puzzles, recipes, coloring pages, and Mad Libs that encourage early literacy skills in younger students and invite them to feel included in the excitement of journalism. This emphasis on inclusivity strengthens connections among students, helping them to appreciate the diverse voices that make up their school community.
At a time when seven in ten voters express distrust in the media’s ability to report accurately on politics, according to a Washington Post-Schar School polling, and where the media ranks as the least-trusted civic and political institution, according to Gallup, the need to rebuild public trust in the press and promote responsible journalism has never been more urgent. That is why the work happening at Maugham Elementary School is so critical. Though small in scale, the club is a step toward cultivating a new generation of enthusiastic journalists and critical thinkers who recognize the importance of integrity, ethical communication, and active engagement within their communities. By empowering young minds to engage critically with the world around them, Maugham Elementary School is not just nurturing aspiring reporters; it is helping to shape informed, responsible individuals who will carry forward the values of honesty and integrity.
