Journalism II and III at The Columbus School (TCS) is the place to hone your writing skills for 11th and 12th graders. It’s not just a class, it’s a launching pad for your future career at the helm of “The Discoverer,” TCS’s long-running student newspaper with a history that stretches back over a decade.

This year, things got a bit of a shake-up with a new teacher at the helm. Mr. David Gold passed the torch to Mr. Andrew Sheinker, a seasoned journalist and educator who’s been with TCS for two years now. It’s been a period of learning and adjustment for both students and Mr. Shainker, but they’re navigating it together.

Mr. Shainker, known for his adventures in international and photographic journalism, has quickly become a familiar face in the TCS journalism world. Students love his down-to-earth teaching style and his genuine care for their well-being. Just ask Luciana Restrepo, the senior editor-in-chief of “The Discoverer.” “Mr. Sheinker’s feedback is amazing,” she says. “He gives you insights without drowning you in information. I honestly feel like I’m becoming a much better writer under his guidance.”

So, what does a typical day in Journalism II and III look like? It’s all about keeping things active and engaging. The class starts with a warm welcome and a quick check-in to see how everyone’s doing. Then, they dive into analyzing a news clip, followed by a bite-sized 10-minute lesson. After that, it’s time for students to put their learning into practice, either individually or in collaboration. The day wraps up with a quick “exit ticket” to gauge understanding. This structure is designed to keep students on their toes and actively involved.

Senior Amalia Agudelo, a three-year veteran of the class, is happy with the current setup. “The structure works well for me,” she says. “It gives us the consistency we need to focus on our work and learn without feeling overwhelmed.” Amalia also appreciates the positive class dynamic and the open communication channels.

However, not everyone feels the communication is flawless. Some students have mentioned occasional hiccups that disrupt their workflow. Luckily, Mr. Shainker is always open to feedback. As Luciana puts it, “Maybe a bit more hands-on practice would be cool, but overall, no major complaints.” This openness to feedback fosters a supportive environment where students feel heard and valued.

With its established structure and dedication to student growth, Journalism II and III continues to be a cornerstone of TCS. The new leadership brings fresh perspectives and a commitment to continuous improvement. As the class evolves under Mr. Sheinker’s guidance, students appreciate his adaptability and dedication, acknowledging that there’s always room to grow on the path to journalistic excellence.