We're working with Oakland students to deepen our schools coverage

"These are just a few of the questions that Oakland high schoolers are now exploring with the help of Oaklandside journalists through a new student reporting fellowship at our newsroom. Since January, Oaklandside reporters and editors have been mentoring and working closely with a cohort of 12 fellows, who were selected last year from a pool of roughly 80 applicants from district high schools and public charter high schools across the city."

"The participants represent seven Oakland schools, and bring a wide range of backgrounds and lived experiences. Some have worked on their school newspapers or been exposed to journalism through local youth media programs. For others, reporting is brand new. All share a passion for uplifting student voices and a desire to see Oakland's public schools reach their fullest potential."

"For these local kids and their families, schools aren't only a place to work on reading, writing and arithmetic. Schools provide reliable healthy meals, opportunities to play sports and explore the arts, and access to trusted mentors. They're where young people make friends, learn to think critically, and begin to understand their responsibilities in society."

Oaklandside newsroom established a student reporting fellowship in January, mentoring 12 high school fellows selected from approximately 80 applicants across Oakland's district and charter schools. The fellows represent seven different schools with diverse backgrounds and varying journalism experience levels. They investigate student-centered questions about diversity in advanced classes, AI policies, and transportation challenges. Schools serve as vital community hubs providing meals, sports, arts opportunities, and mentorship beyond academics. Public K-12 education remains a core coverage area for Oaklandside, which recognizes schools' significant impact on Oakland's broader community.

Read at The Oaklandside