Please post your ideas for the first edition of the year. Be sure to read the other ideas BEFORE you post your own. You can elaborate on another person's post (with a citation, of course). Be specific and try to format each idea as such:
Article Idea:
Must interviews:
Why will people want to read this:
Remember the off-limits topics: new teachers and sports previews.
Here we go!
mc
44 comments:
Well I agree with everything Bob Jones said, but...
1. Summer Highlights (News)
Idea: The typical quotes and stories of what everyone did over the summer.
Must Interviews: A variety of students, faculty, administrators.
Why: It's a nice transition into the school year and is interesting to the entire community.
2. Intro to the Voice and Staff (Features)
Idea: A really basic introduction of the who's who and what's what of the Voice itself. Including the Editors-in-Chief's goals for the year, etc.
Must interviews: Editors, new staff members, Mary
Why: It will be nice for freshmen and those who aren't avid readers to really get to know the people that actually write and identify with the editors who will eventually be writing lots of op/eds. It will also get a lot of freshmen interested in the idea of maybe taking Journalism.
3. Fall Play Preview (A&E)
Idea: The fall play preparations will start almost immediately and this will look into what it's going to be about and give information about auditions to those interested (I believe it's going to be a musical for the first time this year).
Must Interviews: Annie Elias, Theatre 3/4 students who know more about it
Why: Its informative for both those wanting to participate and just audience members.
4. Catch Up with Travis
Idea: An insight into Travis' summer and any organized plans of action and hopes for the upcoming year. And of course an update on her 2 little boys that are growing up so fast!
Must Interviews: Travis
Why: Travis works a lot over the summer so it will be interesting to see what she's been up to.
5. Selling MA (Op/Ed)
Idea: Just from thinking about what Mary said about all of the Alcohol/Drug themed newspapers being cleared off campus and the slew of visiting 8th graders and parents that are coming in, in what light does the administration want to portray MA in? Do we make our community seem different than it actually is to visitors?
Must Interviews: Dan Babior, Connie, Sue, previous hosts and ambassadors.
Why: It's an interesting topic with regards to MA's identity.
1. Welcoming the Class of 2014
Idea: An introduction to the class of 2014. The layout and design of the article has endless possibilities with abundant photo opportunities (individual photos, a group shot, freshmen engaging in various activities, etc.) We could also interview several freshmen on how their first month or so has gone.
Must Interviews: Freshmen (obviously), class dean
Why: This would be a great way for the freshmen to be included. Since some of the school still might not be too familiar with the class, it would be a good way for students and faculty to be informed.
2. TV/Movie Lineup for the Fall
Idea: The title is fairly self-explanatory, but we could interview students and faculty on what they’re most excited to see at home or on the big screen. Any new shows the MA community should keep their eyes peeled for?
Must Interviews: Students, faculty
Why: I know we did something similar last year and remember it being a big hit. It won’t be a serious read and will inevitably be visually appealing, so it’s most likely that a fair share of readers will flip right to it.
3. Teachers Back from Sabbatical
Idea: An interview with the faculty members who are back from sabbatical (discussing what they did/accomplished).
Must Interviews: J O’Malley is the only faculty member that I am aware of, but I know there are more.
Why: Current MA sophomores are unfamiliar with these faculty members, so it would be a great way for them to familiarize themselves with the few teachers who left last year.
4. Outings Assembly
Idea: An overview of the outings program and what will be offered for the fall semester. As some of them may be the same, students can chime in on which outings they particularly enjoyed. We could possibly do a recap of last year’s outings with photos and comments.
Must Interviews: Peter Poutiatine, students, faculty
Why: This would be a great overview for freshman and new faculty alike who are still a bit unfamiliar with the outings program. While there is an outings guide, sophomores and juniors would most likely appreciate the “refresher” on which trips are being offered in the MA Voice.
5. Catching Up with Recent Grads
Idea: An interview with several ’10 graduates on how their first month at college has been. Did MA seem to prepare them well on not just an academic, but social level? Any tips for the new seniors?
Must Interviews: Graduates
Why: The MA community is very close-knit and would appreciate an update on the class of 2010.
1. Summer Vacation Awards (Features)
Article Idea: In order to mix up the usual summer review, we could do a fun layout with "Awards" for students' and faculty's varying summer trips. One, for example, could be "Most Unusual Vacation," while another could be "Most Relaxing" or "Most Educational Trip."
Must Interviews: This would require extensive summer vacation research, seeing as we would want to find the coolest, most educational, and most unusual summer vacations. We could possibly post something in the bulletin for people to submit their vacations and then interview them from there.
Why: Because it's different! We should definitely try to mix up the paper this year and not give the generic issue.
2. Activities Fair (News)
Article Idea: Coming up at the end of September, the Activities Fair is best known for the amount of candy handed out by each club. But, last year, I had no idea what this "Activities Fair" was. I think, for the freshmen and to rile everyone up, we should do an Activities Fair preview. We could talk to group leaders to see what they're planning on doing to get the most sign-ups.
Must Interviews: Activity leaders, other students, and faculty.
Why: I think people love to hear about things before they creep up on them in the beginning of the year so that they can plan out how they will handle them. Activities Fair, a prime example, is an event that is nice to hear about beforehand because students can plan which booths they will definitely go to and which booths they will go to just to get candy.
3. Back to School: A Drag or Exciting? (Op/Ed)
Article Idea: I think someone (either Voice member or guest writer) should write their opinion on whether they like coming back to school or not. Most people are mad about it, but deep down I think everyone's excited to see their friends and meet the new incoming class.
Must Interviews: Opinion piece... but maybe to show the range, the writer could add in quotes from other people showing the differing opinions on the start of school.
Why: It's a hot topic. I've heard so many of my friends talk about whether or not they're excited or mad to come back. I think with the right writer, it would be an extremely engaging piece.
4. Review of Summer Movies (A&E)
Article Idea: Summer always brings the best, most anticipated movies. Among this year's? Inception and Eclipse. This would just be a review of the summer's top grossing movies.
Must Interviews: Under each review, there could also be a quote from a student or faculty member about what they thought.
Why: Movie reviews are just fun, easy pieces. Summer is also the season to review movies for. We could make it even cuter by adding standing, clapping, or sleeping men like newspapers.
5. Analog Love
Article Idea: Since coming to MA, I've been exposed to a film photography obsession. I've become a part of it, seeing as it's so incredibly prevalent, but it's also something unique to high school and Marin Academy especially. This could just be a simple Op/Ed piece on the movement. It's a big part of a large percentage of the school, and I remember last year there were "Polaroid Revolution" posters up around school.
Must Interviews: Depending on what sort of article this would be (many different options), students that both use film and do not. Also, the writer could talk to faculty and see if they've noticed how many students are into film photography as well.
Why: It's a big part of our school, and I think a lot of people would have something to say and would enjoy reading about it. It just hasn't really been addressed in the paper for as long as I've been here.
Article Idea: Interview student council representatives and see their ideas for this year.
Must interviews: Zia (president) Christie (vice) and Spirit Captains Hunter and Carson
Why will people want to read this: People are curious as to what the elected students plan to do for MA this year. We can see plans they hold.
Article Idea: Freshman's Hopes and Goals for MA
Must interviews: Many freshman
Why will people want to read this: It will be interesting to see what goals the freshman have for MA. Not only will this be a good read for freshman, but also for other grades.
Article Idea: Library's List of Great Books to Read
Must interviews: Both Librarians
Why will people want to read this: I am always wondering what some good books to read are. This article would nice to have to not only feature the librarians, but to also give a variety of books students can read when they have downtime.
Article Idea: Fashion trend predictions for the 2010-2011 year.
Must interviews: Anyone who is into fashion, guys and girls.
Why will people want to read this: Every year there are some major fads and trends at MA (flannel, vans). There are many fashionable students on campus and it would be good to see their opinions on what new trends will arise this year. Students who are into fashion would love this article because they can gage themselves if they would or already have pursued the predicted trends.
Article Idea: Student Summer Vacations/Jobs/Experiences
Must interviews: Any student with a good summer experience
Why will people want to read this: Students like to hear about their peers' summer experiences. This article would be a good chance to look back and reflect on the 2010 summer.
1. Community service over the summer
Idea: Interviews of students (and teachers) who did community service over the summer.
Must Interviews: Students, teachers
Why: The people who spent their summers giving back to the community deserve recognition! Also, this would get the rest of MA interested in doing community service next summer/this year.
2. Programs Abroad
Idea: I hear mixed reviews of Rustic Pathways and all of the other trip-leading companies all the time, and I'm never sure if the stories I hear are true, or if they're just rumors! Through students' anecdotes and reviews of their experiences, this article would help aid in selecting a program for traveling abroad-because there are a plethora of options out there!
Must Interview: MA community members who have been on one of those trips
Why: This article would help students choose which program they want to do, and would clear up some confusion.
3. New School Year resolutions
Idea: Have students share their "New School Year Resolution."
Interviews: An assortment of students
Why: Setting goals=success! This would be entertaining to read.
4. Formspring: The new trend
Idea: An article on the new trend of Formspring-the place where people anonymously ask you questions and you answer them publicly. This could also explore how teenagers' private lives are becoming progressively more public.
Must interviews: Students that know about formspring/have one
Why: It's very relevant to our generation.
5. Favorite Summer Reads
Idea: You could have a picture of the spines of, say 10 books that students read this summer & recommended, in a stack, with the student's name and a little blurb of why they recommended it next to their book.
Must Interviews: Any student who has a book they recommend.
Why: For reading ideas and because it would be a cool design.
1.) Summer Vacation: Where To Visit
Idea: adding on to the whole “summer vacation” theme, a piece about different countries visited by MA students and staff, ranked in terms of sightseeing, food, lodging, unique features and overall enjoyment
Must-Interview: various students and staff that traveled abroad over the summer, hopefully from all grade levels, and a few teachers
Why: it’s fun to learn where everyone went over the summer, and introduces new destinations to think about and potentially visit.
2.) Recommended Reading:
Idea: reviewing and discussing the recommended reading over the summer, and laying out when discussions will (supposedly) be held about them.
Must-Interview: students who chose recommended books, Derek/Brad
Why: for those students who did the reading, it will present a way for them to think about and remember the books, for those that didn’t it provides a look into some good books to read
3.) The Abortion Issue:
Idea: a MA perspective on the abortion issue, different opinions from a high school viewpoint
Must-Interview: students with a variety of thoughts and opinions on abortion
Why: abortion is still a very controversial and widely contested subject in world culture, and this would bring the issue closer to the MA community
4.) The MA Arts Program:
Idea: all the different aspects of the MA arts program, the different arts options at MA, and what each option has to offer
Must-Interview: arts teachers (Katherine, Annie..etc.), students in different programs
Why: to really layout what MA has to offer in terms of the arts, and provide a look into all the different options for the benefit of freshmen, and others looking to branch out
4.) It’s Not Easy Being Green:
Idea: at MA we’re really into being eco-friendly, but some “green” alternatives are hard to find (such as cosmetics, school supplies, clothing), this would provide some good sustainable products, companies and groups for teens
Must-Interview: student members of Eco-Council, reps from Teens Turning Green (and similar groups), reps from highlighted “green” companies
Why: so that MA students know where to get eco-friendly products, and better understand how to be “green”
1.) Summer Camps and Programs (features)
Article idea: Interview MA students about various camps and programs they embarked on this summer. Interview students who traveled with programs to Paris, Barcelona, and other exciting places around the world as well as various camps they may have attended.
Must interviews: Students from different grades.
Why? This would help inspire the MA community to look into similar summer experiences.
2.) Summer television series hits (A/E)
Article Idea: Interview students on their favorite summer television addictions. For all of those watchers who’s favorite shows seasons ended before summer which shows did they settle for? Compare fall favorites to a similar summer show.
Must Interviews: Students and Faculty around the MA campus.
Why? This will recommend shows that are similar to one’s current obsession. This would be a fun read to get people chatting about it.
3.)Community Service Opportunities (News)
Article Idea: To educate MA students, especially the incoming freshman, about the community service MA offers as well as outside options.
Must interviews: Vielka Hoy, Students from different organizations
Why? I waited till the end of last year to start community service at Bahia Vista Elementary school because I had no idea where to look for options. This would help the freshman get an early start in community service. This would also be a good way to introduce Vielka Hoy to the MA community.
4.)Fashion Blog
Article Idea: Similar to one of those New York fashion blogs we would take pictures of well dressed people around the MA campus. Interview each fashion forward person about where they like to shop, their inspiration and what they are wearing.
Must Interviews: MA students who are interested in fashion
Why? It would be really fun to see pictures of peers striking a pose and learning about their fashion inspiration.
5.) Freshman Guest
Article Idea: Get a guest writer freshman to share about their time thus far at MA. This would give a detailed insider look on how the freshman class feels about various topics and their daily thoughts about MA.
Must Interviews: One main freshman guest writer as well as short quotations various other students about their thoughts when they were freshman.
Why? It would be really interesting for the student body to compare the thoughts of a member of the class of 2014 to their own when they were in the same position.
Matt Waxman
1. MA Upcoming Events/Attractions (News)
Idea: Choose classic MA events and let the students know when they are planned and what to expect from them. Also, a poll could be taken on what MA event is the best.
Must Interviews: A variety of students, Travis, and possibly administrators.
Why: A good way to get the MA freshman excited about MA culture and introduce them to it.
2. MA Admission/Application Article
Idea: Possibly take a poll of all schools that MA freshman applied too. Then have the freshman reflect on why they chose MA.
Must Interviews: Freshman
Why: This article and poll would be very interesting for all MA students and would create interesting conversation between Freshman about where they all applied.
3. Freshman Hosts/Shadows
Idea: Article previewing what the freshman will go through with the whole shadow expierence and interview sophomores about best things to do with the shadows when they are visiting.
Must Interviews: Sophomores
Why: Would be very beneficial to let the freshman know what their getting into when they agree to be a host.
4. Lunch Preview
Idea: Article on MA lunches and student commentary on which lunches are the best and which are not worth buying.
Interviews: Various MA students, Lunch attendants
Why: Interesting topic and one that is a very important part of the school day but doesn't get touched upon enough.
5. MA Outdoor Lunch Eating Options
Idea: Article on places on campus that students believe are the best to eat lunch at. Interview different students and find out where are the most best places to eat on the MA campus.
Interviews: Teachers, Students
Why: Interesitng subject which all students can relate too.
6. MA Senior Regrets
Idea: Interview different Seniors about things they had wish they had done their three years prior at MA.
Must Interview: Seniors
Why: Interesting for all grades to reflect on what things to take advantage of while we have the opportunity at MA.
1)Article Idea: Adjusting for Back to school:
After all of our traveling, out-of-sync sleeping patterns, and (for the most part) lack of intense academics, how do we (our peers) adjust back to school in order to complete the first day of school homework assignments? And for those who play fall sports, how do you transition from not having to balance anything to having to balance academics AND extracurricular sports?
Must Interviews: students from all grades, those who play fall sports and those who don’t
Why: Readjusting to school plagues the entire student body, and probably the faculty too.
2) Article Idea: Students’ opinion on starting school (almost 2 entire weeks) before Labor Day. As Tom Woodward mentioned in class, every year it seems crazy how early we start school. A long time ago, no schools reopened until after Labor Day. Now it seems as if only the east coast abides to this tradition. Do students prefer starting earlier and getting out earlier or visa versa?
Must Interviews: range of student body to faculty
Why: it is relevant to the start of school and allows different members of the community to share their opinions.
3)Article Idea: New faces of the Peer Resources
I recall a lot of announcements last year regarding interviews for peer resources, and I’m curious to find out who is not part of the leadership group. We could profile different new members .We could also find out how the pre-existing member think the new members will benefit and add to the group.
Must Interviews: pre-existing members of peer resources, possible alumni who helped made selections, Sanjai, and new members of peer resources.
Why: to shed light on an important leadership group at MA
4)Article Idea: Trending websites/internet topics (similar to Lucy’s idea!)
As well as profiling formspring, we could also profile other websites that are becoming more and more popular and see whether or not their popularity has hit MA. A good angle to take might be privacy…privacy being an umbrella term. Within this topic of privacy, we could easily fit it formspring, foursquare, twitter’s new ability to share your location, and all of the controversy over facebook’s privacy settings.
Must interviews: Brad Lakritz, internet aficionados, members of student body, etc.
Why: Almost everyone belongs to some sort of internet community, whether through emails, blogs, or social networking, therefore it’s relevant to a lot of the community and will raise awareness of internet safety.
5)Article Idea: Songs of Summer
There are several angles you take on this idea: by interviewing a selection of students from MA, we can come up with a “playlist” consisting of a consensus of the hit songs from summer or….we could also interview a variety of students and ask them what song best describes their summers.
Must interviews: students from all grades
Why: Fun, light article
1. Advice from upper classmen.
Similar to Matt Waxman’s idea of interviewing seniors about things they regret, interview upperclassmen about advice and things to keep in mind while at ma for the freshman. I propose this idea so freshman do not have to make some mistakes that some upperclassmen made.
2. Food poll.
Interview sophomores through seniors about their favorite and least favorite foods in the cafeteria in addition get an inside interview for the freshman and sophomores about how to save an extra dollar while choosing what to buy for lunch.
3. New artists.
Interview a handful of students about new musical artists they have discovered over the summer to share with fellow classmates in the upcoming year.
4. Summer Achievements.
interview students about achievements they accomplished during the summer and perhaps interview about programs and camps students did over the summer and their thoughts about them.
5. New Teachers
Give everyone in the school a chance to learn a quick something about the new teachers at ma, what their hobbies are, how long they have been teaching etc
1. Restaurants in San Rafael (News)
Idea: a piece covering some of the restaurants in San Rafael, and their current state
Must Interviews: the owners of some of the local restaurants and if the restaurants are closed, interview some of the people who ate there
Why people will read: this will be partly a piece about good places to eat, and partly a piece about the state of some of the restaurants
2. Favorite Movies (Op/Ed)
Idea: an article that has a variety of people saying what their favorite movie is
Must Interviews: Students and faculty members
Why people will read this: it's always interesting to learn about what other people like, and it's a good way to introduce people to good movies
3. Club Plans (Features)
Idea: Piece explaining the plans that club leaders have for this year
Must interviews: the various club leaders
Why people will read this: it will give them information about the clubs, and will give them an idea of their plans
4. Art from last year (A&E)
Idea: Showcase some of the best art pieces from last year
Must interviews: Anne, Katherine, some art students
Why people will read this: It's interesting to see what talented artists have made
5.
Idea: Check in on the teachers who are on maternity leave
Must interviews: Pilar, Hideko, Lauren, and the other person whose name escapes me
Why people will read this: Everyone loves baby photos
1. BABIES
Idea: As most returning students know, there was a spike in MA teacher pregnancies last year. Over the summer Lauren Toker, Jenny Rosenberg, and Pilar Gongora all delivered their babies (and Hideko will soon)! Similarly to the article we did last year featuring the different pregnant teachers, we could do a piece welcoming their babies into the MA community. It would be fun to get pictures of the newborns and quotes from the new moms about how they are handling motherhood and how they are feeling about returning to teach at MA.
Possible Interviews: Lauren Toker, Jenny Rosenberg, Pilar Gongora, Hideko Akashi, Trixie Sabundayo(still pregnant, but could be a good interview nonetheless).
2. Boys Varsity Soccer
Idea: The boys soccer team has always been popular within the MA community, and even at their first game today the stands were filled with students and parents. Although a few key players graduated last year, there are several freshmen with major potential. We could interview the coach and captains about what their hopes are for the rest of the season and how they feel they are doing currently as a team.
Possible Interviews: Josh Kalkstein(coach), Eric Johanson and Mason McDowell (captains).
3. Music Festivals
Idea: Many MA students enjoy going to music festivals throughout the Bay Area, and In last years first edition we did a piece on Fall music festivals; listing the line ups and general information. With Outside Lands having been a huge hit with many students in and Power to the Peaceful coming up on September 11, and Treasure Island following closely in mid October, it would be nice to let students know about the different music festivals and who is playing/ what can be expected.
Possible Interviews: Any student who has previously attended the music festivals we would be featuring.
4. Summer Art Submissions
Idea: Over the summer many students attended classes offered by programs/schools such as Parsons School of Design and California College of the Arts. We could get submissions from students of the different art pieces they worked on over the summer and feature them in an article.
Possible Interviews: Anna Kelly, Ellie Saake, I think there are more in other grades…
5. Fall Fashion Trends
Idea: Similar to Charlotte and Tess’ ideas we could do a piece on the Fall fashion trends at MA and how people dress for the warm weather. This would include both guys and girls and we could include pictures of students around campus that demonstrate the style trends.
Possible Interviews: Any students wearing the Fall trends.
1. BABIES
Idea: As most returning students know, there was a spike in MA teacher pregnancies last year. Over the summer Lauren Toker, Jenny Rosenberg, and Pilar Gongora all delivered their babies (and Hideko will soon)! Similarly to the article we did last year featuring the different pregnant teachers, we could do a piece welcoming their babies into the MA community. It would be fun to get pictures of the newborns and quotes from the new moms about how they are handling motherhood and how they are feeling about returning to teach at MA.
Possible Interviews: Lauren Toker, Jenny Rosenberg, Pilar Gongora, Hideko Akashi, Trixie Sabundayo(still pregnant, but could be a good interview nonetheless).
2. Boys Varsity Soccer
Idea: The boys soccer team has always been popular within the MA community, and even at their first game today the stands were filled with students and parents. Although a few key players graduated last year, there are several freshmen with major potential. We could interview the coach and captains about what their hopes are for the rest of the season and how they feel they are doing currently as a team.
Possible Interviews: Josh Kalkstein(coach), Eric Johanson and Mason McDowell (captains).
3. Music Festivals
Idea: Many MA students enjoy going to music festivals throughout the Bay Area, and In last years first edition we did a piece on Fall music festivals; listing the line ups and general information. With Outside Lands having been a huge hit with many students in and Power to the Peaceful coming up on September 11, and Treasure Island following closely in mid October, it would be nice to let students know about the different music festivals and who is playing/ what can be expected.
Possible Interviews: Any student who has previously attended the music festivals we would be featuring.
4. Summer Art Submissions
Idea: Over the summer many students attended classes offered by programs/schools such as Parsons School of Design and California College of the Arts. We could get submissions from students of the different art pieces they worked on over the summer and feature them in an article.
Possible Interviews: Anna Kelly, Ellie Saake, I think there are more in other grades…
5. Fall Fashion Trends
Idea: Similar to Charlotte and Tess’ ideas we could do a piece on the Fall fashion trends at MA and how people dress for the warm weather. This would include both guys and girls and we could include pictures of students around campus that demonstrate the style trends.
Possible Interviews: Any students wearing the Fall trends.
woops i didnt see alex's post before mine about the babies, sorry!
1. Nobody New (Feature/News)
The admissions staff mentioned at the end of last year that none of the three returning classes would add any new students this year. This would be an investigation into why not and whether that is expected to continue.
Must Interviews: Admissions staff
Interest: People seemed fairly confused to hear this considering a number of people left the school after last year. I think it's an important question to clear up.
2. I like Sam's idea of catching up with recent graduates, but it may be too soon for the class of '10. Maybe we should look at the class of '06, having just finished college, but with the same lens of how MA has prepared them.
3. Class Identities (Feature)
In junior orientation, J brought up the importance of finding our identity as a class and determining how we want to impact MA. This would focus on how each grade sees (and wants to see) themself and how other grades and faculty view them.
Must Interviews: Students, Deans
Interest: This comes up frequently in conversation, so this provides a chance to get some kind of consensus.
4. When it's time for college (Feature)
This idea was touched on in the college issue last year, but I think it would be incredibly useful to at least get a definite "how early is too early" from the college office for various parts of the college process. This could be fun to do with little sliders indicating which year each topic became appropriate.
Must Interviews: College office
Interest: Everybody has to do it at some point.
5. What NOT to do in San Rafael/ at school (Feature)
A few people have mentioned advice for places to eat in San Rafael and things students should do, but this could delve into the things/ places that should be avoided for the best MA experience.
Interview: sophs through seniors, teavhers would be especially fun
Interest: Who doesn't want to know this?
-Much Love,
Andrew
1. New Club Leaders
Idea: A profile of new club and group leaders. This article will explore their opinions about their new responsibility as leader and how they would like to represent their club. It would also ask about what they want to change/add to the group.
Must Interviews: a collection of the new club leaders
Why: This article would familiarize the community with the clubs and its leaders on campus.
2. Interview Spirit Captains
Idea: Discuss with spirit captains about the importance of school spirit and the excitement surrounding it. Ask what inspired them to run for spirit captain and what ideas they have for making the 2010/2011 school year full of MA liveliness and energy.
Must Interviews: Carson and Hunter
Why: Again it helps the school (particularly the freshman) get to know our spirit captains and get us excited for a new year!
3. Get to know new president
Idea: Talk to Zia about her nervousness/excitement as her new role as MA president. Ask her how she wants to represent MA and why she decided to take on this position. Also this article could include a profile of her including how she spent her summer, favorite movies, songs, etc.
Must Interviews: Zia
Why: This article would be interesting to read and exciting to hear from our new student body leader.
4. Student Involvement Opportunities
Idea: An overview of ways the student body -- particularly freshman -- can get involved in the MA community. A profile of clubs they can join, electives they can take, community service opportunities, the fall play, etc.
Must interviews: Seniors and juniors who participate in one or more of these things that can offer perspective to the advantages of getting more involved in the MA community.
Why: I know as a freshman, and still now, I am looking to find things I can do to participate in the MA community. This would be a great way for people to learn more about these opportunities.
5. Student Insomnia
Idea: It seems that students are staying up later and later. This article would take a look at the amount of sleep the average student gets. It would explore the reasons some students stay up late -- are they doing homework? busy doing extra curricular activities? on facebook? listening to music? watching TV? playing video games? etc. -- and why others go to bed early. We could also ask the students about the difficulties of adjusting to waking up early after a long summer of sleeping in.
Interview: A wide variety of students from each grade.
Why: I have noticed how many of my friends and myself stay up late and how many people there are on facebook late at night. It would be interesting to learn the reasons why this is.
1. Student and Faculty Vacation poll
Article Idea: So this year I think the voice should encorporate espn's "by the numbers". Although this article is not about sports we could still create a list of the number of students that stayed in california, went to Europe, etc.
Must Interviews: All students and faculty
Why people will want to read this: Most people enjoy reading elaborate statistics about interesting information such as travel so I think this would be a great addition to our first article of the year!
2. Predictions for the 2010 Major League Playoffs
Article Idea: October is nearing us and so are the beloved MLB Playoffs. Last year we had an article about March Madness and included Max's predictions, therefore this year we could write a bio of each team and their chances of wining the World Series. However, it may be hard for the staff to write this piece since it is obvious that the Yankees are going to win it again this year!!!!!!!!!
Must Interviews: Assortment and Student and Faculty, especially teachers that love baseball: Dave, Mary, Bill...
Why people will want to read this: People like baseball at MA and it will get everyone excited for the 2010 playoffs.
3. Senior and Freshman Back to School quotes
Article of Idea: Going off of what Lena said we could interview Seniors and Freshman about their feelings and experience of the first week of school. Obviously their experiences will be much different, therefore it would be humorous to compare their quotes.
Must Interviews: Seniors and Freshman
Why People will want to read this: It will be funny, but at the same time it will relax Freshman that they were not the only ones that felt nervous during their first day back at school.
4. All School Orientations
Article Idea: This is the first year that there was a sophomore and junior orientation as well as the freshman and senior retreat. We could talk to Lynn and the students about whether they liked it or not and if it helped them get back into the ease of school
Must Interviews: Lynn Hansen, Joe Harvey, MA faculty and students
Why People will want to read this: It is new and I'm sure the administration would love to hear the student's thoughts about this new addition.
5. The end of the series LOST
Article Idea: I do not watch Lost but a lot of people at this school do. We could interview them about their feelings towards the stoppage of such an epic show. Will it give them more time to focus on schoolwork instead of taking time away to watch Lost?
Must Interviews: Everyone
Why people will want to read this: Because people watch Lost at MA and it is no longer running.
1. News: I like Sam's idea about giving updates on graduates that just graduated college and are in other parts of their lives.
Interviews: Variety of alumni, ranging from all ages (sophmore in college to 50 yr old adults) and Elissa Van Dursen
Why: I think a lot of people would find this interesting because no very many people know the whereabouts of graduated alums
2. missing drug edition (similar to Neha's)
I think we should bring to attention what Mary was talking about. we can also go into the topic of censoring it is important to talk about what kind of message is being sent out by this.
Interviews: students, lynne, other ma faculty or teachers
why: it is important to talk about what kind of message is being sent out by this.
3.Senior Circle Party
we could do a piece on the senior circle party
interviews: seniors, perspective from other grades, teachers
why: i think its one of the most spirited times at MA and its always a crazy time. it would be cool to have pictures from this years
4. the many reality tv shows
reality tv shows are all over the tv and they are getting so trashy yet so popular. it would be interesting to see if there's an underground MA following or distaste, ect.
interviews: teachers, MA students
why: it would be cool to expose the MA opinion or different opinions on this new hype.
5. Summer highlights (everyone else's idea)
I think we should do the same thing we did last year because it was extremely interesting and the pictures and layout from last year is still one of our best layouts.
interviews: students/teachers that want to share what they did this summer
why: i know everyone is curious what people did and the pictures are always fun to find.
1) (Similar to Annies Idea)
Being Green: Practicality Vs. Eco-Friendliness
In my classes this year I've noticed an even stronger push to become a paperless classroom and operate entirely on e-mail, class blogs, and smart boards. This is a step to reduce our school's carbon footprint; however, is it the most practical way to learn and does the unreliable and commonly dysfunctional "smart" board really reflect its name?
Must interviews: Students who are in paperless classes, John Hicks (customer and hater of the "smart" board)
Hours of Sleep Data Entry in the Planner:
To be frank, what purpose do these placeholders at the bottom of each day serve? After being lectured by a sleep doctor, completing numerous surveys on our workload and amount of sleep we got each night, the solution of a small line to write how long we slept seems insufficient for what was made to be a much larger problem. Is there a greater purpose for this line, or is writing down how long we slept going to change our workload and make us feel rejuvenated.
Interviews: AAC (I think they were in charge of the surveys) Travis, etc.
Buying and Selling Text Books:
The online program for buying text books has been an effective tool for easily purchasing either used or new text books quickly. But when the end of the year comes, it seems the price the company buys the books back for is ridiculous. The guaranteed buy back that the company offers makes it seem more logical to keep your books and try selling them off another website or to a classmate. This article should look into the reasoning behind the book buy back pricing.
Must interviews: Someone from the book company, Librarians
Summer Highlights: (Just like Neha and others)
I think one of our best page designs last year was the compilation of people's scenic summer trips etc. I think it would be great to continue with this topic again in our first edition of the year.
Must Interviews: Any student who travelled
The Garden:
I think that featuring the garden and its ripening crops would be a great addition to the issue. It will show what types of foods that the café is using in their cooking, what the gardening class is working on, and what any MA student can do in the garden. It will urge people to visit the garden for a snack and increase its popularity as a place to hangout.
Must interviews: Garden Class, MA Café cooks etc.
Marshall L
1) (Similar to Annies Idea)
Being Green: Practicality Vs. Eco-Friendliness
In my classes this year I've noticed an even stronger push to become a paperless classroom and operate entirely on e-mail, class blogs, and smart boards. This is a step to reduce our school's carbon footprint; however, is it the most practical way to learn and does the unreliable and commonly dysfunctional "smart" board really reflect its name?
Must interviews: Students who are in paperless classes, John Hicks (customer and hater of the "smart" board)
Hours of Sleep Data Entry in the Planner:
To be frank, what purpose do these placeholders at the bottom of each day serve? After being lectured by a sleep doctor, completing numerous surveys on our workload and amount of sleep we got each night, the solution of a small line to write how long we slept seems insufficient for what was made to be a much larger problem. Is there a greater purpose for this line, or is writing down how long we slept going to change our workload and make us feel rejuvenated.
Interviews: AAC (I think they were in charge of the surveys) Travis, etc.
Buying and Selling Text Books:
The online program for buying text books has been an effective tool for easily purchasing either used or new text books quickly. But when the end of the year comes, it seems the price the company buys the books back for is ridiculous. The guaranteed buy back that the company offers makes it seem more logical to keep your books and try selling them off another website or to a classmate. This article should look into the reasoning behind the book buy back pricing.
Must interviews: Someone from the book company, Librarians
Summer Highlights: (Just like Neha and others)
I think one of our best page designs last year was the compilation of people's scenic summer trips etc. I think it would be great to continue with this topic again in our first edition of the year.
Must Interviews: Any student who travelled
The Garden:
I think that featuring the garden and its ripening crops would be a great addition to the issue. It will show what types of foods that the café is using in their cooking, what the gardening class is working on, and what any MA student can do in the garden. It will urge people to visit the garden for a snack and increase its popularity as a place to hangout.
Must interviews: Garden Class, MA Café cooks etc.
1. Why MA?
Idea: Interviews about why MA students chose MA as eighth-graders (or older transfers): arts, sports, academics, general vibe, etc. What did they take from their shadow visits? What aspects of MA took them by surprise?
Must Interviews: students from all grades, administration
Why: A beginning-of-the-year reflection for all, and especially informative for freshmen
2. Recycling, reducing, reusing for the upcoming school year
Idea: What is the MA community doing differently this year to reduce its carbon footprint? Ex. new green products, ways to reuse "junk," etc.
Must interviews: students, faculty...anyone
Why: Find new ways to go green, encourage people to do so.
3. High School: Then and Now
Idea: Interview faculty about their high school experiences. There are some things about high school that never change, and some that have changed quite a bit. I don't know if their are any/many faculty members who have gone to high school in a different country, but that would be interesting as well.
Must interviews: Faculty
Why: Give students perspective, insight
4. Pre-game tips
Idea: Interview MA's athletes about how they prepare for games. Carbo-load? Red Bull? Meditation?
Must interviews: Athletes doing sports this fall
Why: Share ideas, tips/tricks
5. News Sources
Idea: The transition from newspapers to the internet as a news source. Are we getting lazy? Sacrificing reliability for convenience?
Must interviews: Students, teachers (esp. teachers that teach about current issues)
Why: Get the community to think about who they're trusting to keep them in touch with the world
1. Clubs preveiw
I know someone already said something along these lines but laying out all the clubs and a little bit about them. Also give contact information and/or meeting times so people can check out the club if they want to.
must interview: clubs leaders
why: It lays out all the options for people, especially freshmen, so that they do not have to wait for clubs to announce themselves or go in search of them.
2. Different cuisines in San Rafael
The café is good, but sometimes a change would be nice. Find out where student's favorite places to eat are, and also different types of restaurants (Chinese, Puerto Rican, etc.).
interview: students
why: as I said, sometimes you just want someting other than the café food. this gives students restaurants they can go to to switch it up.
3. Off-season training
Find out how some of the schools athletes stay in shape during the off-season.
interview: MA athletes
why: gives helpful suggestions not only to those who don't want to lose all the work they did during the season but also to those who don't play a sport and just want to stay in shape. If more of our players have ways to train in the off-season, they'll be more in shape for the season, and might win more games/meets/matches.
4. Beat the heat
I don't know if this unbearable heat wave marks the beginning of summer weather, but even if it doesn't, giving students tips to beat the heat would probably be greatly appreciated
interview: students and teachers
why: help students cool down so they won't be so distracted by the sweltering heat that they can't pay attention in class and will just be more comfortable.
5. Advice from Upperclassmen
Kind of like the other posts about this.Interview upperclassmen and find out how they made it through the past years. Get the Do'sand Don't of the underclassmen years and helpful tips to make high school a better experience
interview: upperclassmen
why: help the underclassmen find strategies to make it through high school enjoyably.
1. summer travels, but bringing it back to MA
Like everyone else, I think its so interesting to hear about where everyone went this summer and the many new experiences they had. However, because it seems this article has been written a lot before, maybe we could add a twist and also ask the interviewees how/if their recent travels will effect them at MA. More specifically, if there are any specific experiences that will cause them to think differently this year at school.
Must interviews: anyone who traveled
2. Spirit at sport games
I think its so important to tell the freshman and to remind everyone how crucial and supportive it is to attend sports games (along with cheering very loudly!) Along with reminding students to attend and support our MA wildcats, we can give ideas (and interview students to get ideas) on how we can be super spirited. I know someone mentioned interviewing our spirit captains, so maybe we could incorporate them into this piece by asking them for ideas and advice.
Must interviews: spirit captains, any students with ideas!
3. Mosque near Ground Zero
The discussion and fierce debate on weather the mosque should be allowed to be built so close to ground zero has been a popular subject in the public newspapers. I think it would be so interesting to bring this current even to MA and interview people to see what their opinion is. This article would be a great way to connect MA with the rest of the world and it would also allow readers to begin to form their own opinion if they didn't know much about the subject before.
Must interviews: all students/faculty with an opinion
4. Facebook/formspring/twitter
Like Ilana and Lucy said, i think it would be good to have an article on the many online sites a majority of out students use. Both Lucy and Ilana mentioned the privacy factor (which i agree is important), however i think we should also reflect on the time that all these sites take from us. This could also tie in nicely with Claire's idea of having an article about not getting enough sleep.
Must interviews: students who use these sites
5. Changes at MA
It would be interesting to reflect and see what has changed at MA this year. Whether it is a positive or negative change, it would be beneficial for returning students to take a second and recognize the change. It would also be interesting for the freshman because they could get a feel of what MA was like last year!
Must interviews: students who have recognized change, faculty
1. summer travels, but bringing it back to MA
Like everyone else, I think its so interesting to hear about where everyone went this summer and the many new experiences they had. However, because it seems this article has been written a lot before, maybe we could add a twist and also ask the interviewees how/if their recent travels will effect them at MA. More specifically, if there are any specific experiences that will cause them to think differently this year at school.
Must interviews: anyone who traveled
2. Spirit at sport games
I think its so important to tell the freshman and to remind everyone how crucial and supportive it is to attend sports games (along with cheering very loudly!) Along with reminding students to attend and support our MA wildcats, we can give ideas (and interview students to get ideas) on how we can be super spirited. I know someone mentioned interviewing our spirit captains, so maybe we could incorporate them into this piece by asking them for ideas and advice.
Must interviews: spirit captains, any students with ideas!
3. Mosque near Ground Zero
The discussion and fierce debate on weather the mosque should be allowed to be built so close to ground zero has been a popular subject in the public newspapers. I think it would be so interesting to bring this current even to MA and interview people to see what their opinion is. This article would be a great way to connect MA with the rest of the world and it would also allow readers to begin to form their own opinion if they didn't know much about the subject before.
Must interviews: all students/faculty with an opinion
4. Facebook/formspring/twitter
Like Ilana and Lucy said, i think it would be good to have an article on the many online sites a majority of out students use. Both Lucy and Ilana mentioned the privacy factor (which i agree is important), however i think we should also reflect on the time that all these sites take from us. This could also tie in nicely with Claire's idea of having an article about not getting enough sleep.
Must interviews: students who use these sites
5. Changes at MA
It would be interesting to reflect and see what has changed at MA this year. Whether it is a positive or negative change, it would be beneficial for returning students to take a second and recognize the change. It would also be interesting for the freshman because they could get a feel of what MA was like last year!
Must interviews: students who have recognized change, faculty
1. summer travels, but bringing it back to MA
Like everyone else, I think its so interesting to hear about where everyone went this summer and the many new experiences they had. However, because it seems this article has been written a lot before, maybe we could add a twist and also ask the interviewees how/if their recent travels will effect them at MA. More specifically, if there are any specific experiences that will cause them to think differently this year at school.
Must interviews: anyone who traveled
2. Spirit at sport games
I think its so important to tell the freshman and to remind everyone how crucial and supportive it is to attend sports games (along with cheering very loudly!) Along with reminding students to attend and support our MA wildcats, we can give ideas (and interview students to get ideas) on how we can be super spirited. I know someone mentioned interviewing our spirit captains, so maybe we could incorporate them into this piece by asking them for ideas and advice.
Must interviews: spirit captains, any students with ideas!
3. Mosque near Ground Zero
The discussion and fierce debate on weather the mosque should be allowed to be built so close to ground zero has been a popular subject in the public newspapers. I think it would be so interesting to bring this current even to MA and interview people to see what their opinion is. This article would be a great way to connect MA with the rest of the world and it would also allow readers to begin to form their own opinion if they didn't know much about the subject before.
Must interviews: all students/faculty with an opinion
4. Facebook/formspring/twitter
Like Ilana and Lucy said, i think it would be good to have an article on the many online sites a majority of out students use. Both Lucy and Ilana mentioned the privacy factor (which i agree is important), however i think we should also reflect on the time that all these sites take from us. This could also tie in nicely with Claire's idea of having an article about not getting enough sleep.
Must interviews: students who use these sites
5. Changes at MA
It would be interesting to reflect and see what has changed at MA this year. Whether it is a positive or negative change, it would be beneficial for returning students to take a second and recognize the change. It would also be interesting for the freshman because they could get a feel of what MA was like last year!
Must interviews: students who have recognized change, faculty
What happened in the world while we were away? (News)
Idea: I get that it is interesting to learn about our travels but also a lot of stuff has happened since we have been away from school -- The World Cup, for example.
Why?: I think that people are interested in getting in touch with current events but would like it spoon-fed to them and that is something we can do. This could be the first of an ongoing column about what is happening outside of MA. Obviously we would need to relate it back to our own community.
Day in the Life Of... (Features)
Idea: Mary talked about this last year and I think it is something we should totally try out. Pick a person - Travis, Lindsay, a freshman, Ken Ellingboe etc. and do a full interview with that member of our community about what they do on a daily basis, from start to finish. We can get daily routines and responsibilities.
Must Interviews: The chosen person and possibly others close to him or her
Why?: To better understand someone in our community!
Summer Concerts (A&E)
Idea: We can report about not only the big music festivals like Outside Lands and Rock the Bells but also any other concerts that people at our school have attended. Did the performer(s) meet your expectations? Was it worth the money? Also, Treasure Island is coming up so there could be a preview for that in there to get everyone excited.
Must Interviews: All concert goers and maybe some who choose not to go to get some balanced perspective.
Why?: Lots of kids are spending a lot of money to see these live performances so it is definitely applicable to the MA community. Also, a chance to live vicariously through the experiences of your peers.
Photos! (Features)
Idea: Collect an assortment of beautiful pictures from around the world and layout similar to last year's edition after spring break with the beautiful pictures.
Must Interviews: Get pictures from those who traveled and captured.
Why?: Picture is worth a thousand words. Everyone wants to have articles about people travels, which I do think is a good idea, but if we can supplement that with some awesome photographs, that could be great.
The "Old MA" (Op-Ed)
Idea: Last year there was a ton of focus (especially from the senior class about being more like the "old MA". First, what does that even mean? Second, do we really need to go back? Is the place we are in not good? I don't know. How do the seniors intend to set the tone for the year?
Must Interviews: Maybe spirit captains and spirited seniors, freshman's first impressions about what MA is. How does that differentiate from this idea of the old tie-dye wearing hippie filled circle that many seem to miss?
Why?: So many at MA complains about the changes. Could be interesting to look more closely at them.
What happened in the world while we were away? (News)
Idea: I get that it is interesting to learn about our travels but also a lot of stuff has happened since we have been away from school -- The World Cup, for example.
Why?: I think that people are interested in getting in touch with current events but would like it spoon-fed to them and that is something we can do. This could be the first of an ongoing column about what is happening outside of MA. Obviously we would need to relate it back to our own community.
Day in the Life Of... (Features)
Idea: Mary talked about this last year and I think it is something we should totally try out. Pick a person - Travis, Lindsay, a freshman, Ken Ellingboe etc. and do a full interview with that member of our community about what they do on a daily basis, from start to finish. We can get daily routines and responsibilities.
Must Interviews: The chosen person and possibly others close to him or her
Why?: To better understand someone in our community!
Summer Concerts (A&E)
Idea: We can report about not only the big music festivals like Outside Lands and Rock the Bells but also any other concerts that people at our school have attended. Did the performer(s) meet your expectations? Was it worth the money? Also, Treasure Island is coming up so there could be a preview for that in there to get everyone excited.
Must Interviews: All concert goers and maybe some who choose not to go to get some balanced perspective.
Why?: Lots of kids are spending a lot of money to see these live performances so it is definitely applicable to the MA community. Also, a chance to live vicariously through the experiences of your peers.
Photos! (Features)
Idea: Collect an assortment of beautiful pictures from around the world and layout similar to last year's edition after spring break with the beautiful pictures.
Must Interviews: Get pictures from those who traveled and captured.
Why?: Picture is worth a thousand words. Everyone wants to have articles about people travels, which I do think is a good idea, but if we can supplement that with some awesome photographs, that could be great.
The "Old MA" (Op-Ed)
Idea: Last year there was a ton of focus (especially from the senior class about being more like the "old MA". First, what does that even mean? Second, do we really need to go back? Is the place we are in not good? I don't know. How do the seniors intend to set the tone for the year?
Must Interviews: Maybe spirit captains and spirited seniors, freshman's first impressions about what MA is. How does that differentiate from this idea of the old tie-dye wearing hippie filled circle that many seem to miss?
Why?: So many at MA complains about the changes. Could be interesting to look more closely at them.
1. What happened in the world while we were away? (News)
Idea: I get that it is interesting to learn about our travels but also a lot of stuff has happened since we have been away from school -- The World Cup, for example.
Why?: I think that people are interested in getting in touch with current events but would like it spoon-fed to them and that is something we can do. This could be the first of an ongoing column about what is happening outside of MA. Obviously we would need to relate it back to our own community.
2. Day in the Life Of... (Features)
Idea: Mary talked about this last year and I think it is something we should totally try out. Pick a person - Travis, Lindsay, a freshman, Ken Ellingboe etc. and do a full interview with that member of our community about what they do on a daily basis, from start to finish. We can get daily routines and responsibilities.
Must Interviews: The chosen person and possibly others close to him or her
Why?: To better understand someone in our community!
3. Summer Concerts (A&E)
Idea: We can report about not only the big music festivals like Outside Lands and Rock the Bells but also any other concerts that people at our school have attended. Did the performer(s) meet your expectations? Was it worth the money? Also, Treasure Island is coming up so there could be a preview for that in there to get everyone excited.
Must Interviews: All concert goers and maybe some who choose not to go to get some balanced perspective.
Why?: Lots of kids are spending a lot of money to see these live performances so it is definitely applicable to the MA community. Also, a chance to live vicariously through the experiences of your peers.
4. Photos! (Features)
Idea: Collect an assortment of beautiful pictures from around the world and layout similar to last year's edition after spring break with the beautiful pictures.
Must Interviews: Get pictures from those who traveled and captured.
Why?: Picture is worth a thousand words. Everyone wants to have articles about people travels, which I do think is a good idea, but if we can supplement that with some awesome photographs, that could be great.
5. The "Old MA" (Op-Ed)
Idea: Last year there was a ton of focus (especially from the senior class about being more like the "old MA". First, what does that even mean? Second, do we really need to go back? Is the place we are in not good? I don't know. How do the seniors intend to set the tone for the year?
Must Interviews: Maybe spirit captains and spirited seniors, freshman's first impressions about what MA is. How does that differentiate from this idea of the old tie-dye wearing hippie filled circle that many seem to miss?
Why?: So many at MA complains about the changes. Could be interesting to look more closely at them.
Maybe if I post my ideas for a fifth time then they will really get across...
Sorry guys!
1. Why MA: then vs. now
Similar to Julia’s idea, but as well as (or instead of) interviewing the freshman about why the chose MA, we could interview sophmores-seniors about why the chose MA in the first place, and whether they enjoy MA for the same reasons they thought they would.
Interviews: seniors, maybe even ask teachers the same thing (why they chose MA/why they like it now)
Why: It’s interesting to listen to look back on why we chose MA and I’m sure that the reasons we like it now are different than why we chose it.
2. Senior vibe
Every senior class has its own personality that makes it special, so we could write about what personalities this senior class seems to have/what makes it special. Then this year’s seniors could be asked what they like or dislike about their class as a whole and why they think that their class is the best.
Interviews: Some seniors of course, also members from other grades about what they think of the senior class
3. Goals for new year
Similar to those said before, but not just the freshman but also the seniors. It would be interesting to ask the seniors if they accomplished what they thought they would, or if they fell short; what enabled or inhibited their pursuit. Also, is senior year too late to make those changes needed to accomplish their goals, or is it too late?
Interviews: Some freshman, some seniors
Why: Everybody has a unique vision of how they would like to end up accomplishing senior year, and seniors often forget this original vision once they finally are there, so it would be interesting to have them bring back and share their memory of their original goals and where their path to being a senior has led them.
4. Reason behind course choices
As everyone settles into MA and gets comfortable with their classes, it would be interesting to know why people chose the classes they did. While some people take classes because they are interested in the subject, others take them just to take an easy class or to fill a requirement. Maybe an anonymous poll would be best so that people wouldn’t just lie and say they truly did not take a class just because of its difficulty level.
Interviews: students with a variety of class choices (some with 7 classes, some with easy schedules, ect.)
Why: It would be cool to publicize the truth behind why students chose classes
5. Priority: school or sports?
Many athletes seem to think of their sport as much more important than their schoolwork, while others focus mostly on school. What are the reasons behind this choice, and which way leads to a more promising future: school or sports?
Interviews: An even mix of students from different grade levels who both play sports and don’t, maybe an insight from a teacher as to which path is the smarter one.
Why: as freshman enter high school they have many choices, one being what to focus on. I’m sure they would love advice from experienced MA students as to what would be smart to spend more time on, and what wouldn’t be so bad to let slip away.
2. Senior Vibe (forgot the Why)
Why: The personality of the senior class is the most noticed of all the classes, and everyone has their own opinion of what the characteristics of this personality is. It would be interesting for the seniors to know what the rest of the school sees their personality being.
1.) MA sports stars outside of school (Sports)
Idea: There are plenty of talented athletes in school, but some tend to be on an extra plane. We should take a look at the student-athletes that have had statewide and even national success in their sports, such as our own Greig Stein (although obviously we cannot interview him).
Must Interviews: It might take some digging to find out these champions, but a start would be Mason McDowell--his club team won the State Championship). Also, Josh Frechette would be an interesting interview.
Why: I know that I feel proud when someone such as Greig has success on the state and national level, and I think that we should give these athletes an opportunity to be recognized.
2.) Senior nervousness and preparation
Idea: We had our issue on college last year, so I think it would be interesting to do a piece about how this year's seniors are feeling about the upcoming stress of applying to college. This could tie into other peoples' ideas about Senior regrets.
Interviews: Seniors (obviously), college counselors, Senior dean.
Why: I think it would be a nice transition from last edition to this one.
3.) The "other" positions in the Student Senate
Idea: The class representatives, president, vice president, and spirit captains are all student-elected positions. Yet there are four other spots on the Student Senate that are not student-elected, and as a result the student body does not seem to know much about them. These are the two Academic Affairs Committee student members, the treasurer, and the secretary. This could just be a small feature (I was thinking box-style).
Interviews: Brian Rowett, Ben Bogin, Genelle Matthews, and whoever the secretary is (I cannot remember at the moment).
Why: I think students should be able to have greater knowledge about the people who they have not elected to the Senate yet are important to it.
4.) Oil Spill
Idea: I think that its time we talked about the Gulf Oil Spill in terms of MA, even if it is in its (hopefully) ending stages. We could get peoples' opinions over how effective the response of the nation was, who is accountable, and what even we can do to help the region.
Must Interviews--students from all grades, especially prominent members of the eco council.
Why: This is a very important national issue, even though it happened a while ago. Also, MA has the tag of being a very eco-concious school, so I am sure that people have strong opinions on what could have been done better and what can be done by the community.
5.) Summer travel map/feature
Idea: We could find a certain amount of people (12, for example) who went somewhere extremely interesting this summer and write a small feature about each of them. However, to change it up, I think that it would be a very interesting idea to show where each person went on a map (a la college map). Interviews: a good-sized amount of people that went somewhere interesting this summer.
Why: I think that the focal point of this piece, the map, would be a good way to get in a traditional "summer stories" piece, yet make it more intriguing.
1: RELIGION (Features/Op Ed) (Too elaborate on Ella)
The recent debate about the mosque being built in ground zero in New York city has made me think a lot about Religion in this country. Specifically, how solid our commitment to freedom of religion really is. On an MA level I ask, what is the role of religion on campus, if any? Why does our school have the very active Jew Crew but no other club connected to religion? Are certain religions some how unpopular with students...to be blunt Christianity?
INTERVIEW: EVERYONE, ANYONE, but definitely get Charis, Sanjai, Joani in there.
WHY: It's a relevant issue brought up with ongoing mosque discussion. In my memory I don't think this has been in the Voice recently. There Could Be Tension.
2: HACKY SACK (Sports)
Last year a group of juniors (now seniors) started playing hacky sack and now they’ve gotten pretty good. At the end of last year it seemed to be spreading to some of the younger classes. I think it would be interesting to get some pictures of people doing their favorite tricks and maybe giving some “how to” tips. I don’t imagine this being too text heavy, just light with mostly photos.
INTERVIEW: People who play Hacky Sack
WHY: I think students will enjoy seeing some cool shots of friends showing off their hacking skills.
3: SENIOR RETREAT (Features/News)
I’ve always felt up until I attended that Senior Retreat is somewhat of an enigma. Maybe it’s time to shed some light on the matter. It’s always hyped up as ‘amazing’ and a ‘life long memory’ but how do the seniors who just attended it feel about it? What is the best mindset seniors think the retreat should be approached with?
INTERVIEW: Seniors, Bill Meyer…
WHY: Timely, and like I said, probably a subject that anyone other that a senior is not really familiar with at all.
4: GEORGE’S NIGHTCLUB (Arts)
At 842 4th Street (By Cijos Street) there exists a place called George’s that is reopening for the first time in 7 years. It will be an all ages nightclub that will at first feature a number of local cover bands. In it’s heyday, George’s hosted heavyweights like the Grateful Dead, Huey Lewis and the News, and Electric Light Orchestra. Do students/teachers know about this new venue and would they be interested in going to see live music there?
INTERVIEW: students/teachers, someone from George’s.
WHY: There is a common gripe that Marin is dead at night. Well this might be a place that might revive the county’s nightlife a bit. Two Words: ALL AGES.
5: 20 YEARS OF THE VOICE (Features)
If we have an old page from the first year of the MA Voice I think we should simply place it as is in the paper. It would be funny to see if people notice the date on the page. As they did, they would be able to compare themselves the how different the paper has become, and notice what were some the stories of MA in 1990.
INTERVIEWS: None Needed
WHY: People like tricks.
1: RELIGION (Features/Op Ed) (Too elaborate on Ella)
The recent debate about the mosque being built in ground zero in New York city has made me think a lot about Religion in this country. Specifically, how solid our commitment to freedom of religion really is. On an MA level I ask, what is the role of religion on campus, if any? Why does our school have the very active Jew Crew but no other club connected to religion? Are certain religions some how unpopular with students...to be blunt Christianity?
INTERVIEW: EVERYONE, ANYONE, but definitely get Charis, Sanjai, Joani in there.
WHY: It's a relevant issue brought up with ongoing mosque discussion. In my memory I don't think this has been in the Voice recently. There Could Be Tension.
2: HACKY SACK (Sports)
Last year a group of juniors (now seniors) started playing hacky sack and now they’ve gotten pretty good. At the end of last year it seemed to be spreading to some of the younger classes. I think it would be interesting to get some pictures of people doing their favorite tricks and maybe giving some “how to” tips. I don’t imagine this being too text heavy, just light with mostly photos.
INTERVIEW: People who play Hacky Sack
WHY: I think students will enjoy seeing some cool shots of friends showing off their hacking skills.
3: SENIOR RETREAT (Features/News)
I’ve always felt up until I attended that Senior Retreat is somewhat of an enigma. Maybe it’s time to shed some light on the matter. It’s always hyped up as ‘amazing’ and a ‘life long memory’ but how do the seniors who just attended it feel about it? What is the best mindset seniors think the retreat should be approached with?
INTERVIEW: Seniors, Bill Meyer…
WHY: Timely, and like I said, probably a subject that anyone other that a senior is not really familiar with at all.
4: GEORGE’S NIGHTCLUB (Arts)
At 842 4th Street (By Cijos Street) there exists a place called George’s that is reopening for the first time in 7 years. It will be an all ages nightclub that will at first feature a number of local cover bands. In it’s heyday, George’s hosted heavyweights like the Grateful Dead, Huey Lewis and the News, and Electric Light Orchestra. Do students/teachers know about this new venue and would they be interested in going to see live music there?
INTERVIEW: students/teachers, someone from George’s.
WHY: There is a common gripe that Marin is dead at night. Well this might be a place that might revive the county’s nightlife a bit. Two Words: ALL AGES.
5: 20 YEARS OF THE VOICE (Features)
If we have an old page from the first year of the MA Voice I think we should simply place it as is in the paper. It would be funny to see if people notice the date on the page. As they did, they would be able to compare themselves the how different the paper has become, and notice what were some the stories of MA in 1990.
INTERVIEWS: None Needed
WHY: People like tricks.
Religion:
I completely agree with Riley that this issue is one that has always been prevalent at MA and something that most people try to just ignore, but there have been times when there's been tension in a class or during human development. How do teachers reconcile their curriculum with religious students--are there places where they feel they have to hold back for fear of offending someone (ex. in history when we learn about christianity, etc.)? Do religious students feel accepted by our largely non-religious community? Are we too "PC"? I think that there are a lot of different avenues in which we could talk about this issue--relating it to the outside world, op-ed piece, editorial, etc.
Summer reading:
This year summer reading was really different than last year's in that it was optional and the books were not designated by grade level. We should review the program and compare and contrast it from last year's program, with quotes from Derrick about why the change was made, whether he thinks this year's summer reading was successful, and what the future plans for summer reading are. We should also hold a poll to see how many students actually read one of the summer reading books this past summer, and whether that number is up or down from years past.
October calendar:
When we had calendars last year I think they were really successful. We could include sports games, concerts (inside and outside of school), new movies, spirit week, deadlines for college applications (for seniors), and anything else that would interest the MA student.
Meet the substitutes:
There are teachers who starting this year will be on the MA staff full time, and there are others who will only be here for a semester or two because they are filling in for teachers on maternity leave/sabbatical. We should differentiate the short-term teachers in our teacher profiles but still make a big deal about them being here, even if it is only for a short while (maybe talk about what they plan to do after they leave MA?).
1. Most Popular Electives (News)
Idea: A survey of the most popular electives in english, history, and science.
Must Interview: Upper Classmen, Karen Jacobsen
Why: It's interesting to find out which classes are in high demand. Underclassmen would also appreciate the advice from the older students on which classes are the most interesting and why.
2. You've Got Mail (Op-Ed)
Idea: Since taking PSATs, I have been bombarded with hundreds of letters, invitations, info sheets about various colleges. It would be interesting to see just how many letters juniors and seniors receive on a daily or yearly basis and how to sort through all of that.
Interviews: Joe Harvey, college counselors, Juniors, Seniors
Why: I think a lot of people feel a little overwhelmed and would love some advice from students who are in the process of applying to college or the adults at MA. I think it would be helpful to find out some systems that people have used in the past to deal with all the advertisements (I hate to call it that but colleges really are selling themselves to us) we get in the mail everyday.
3. Generation Gap (Features)
Idea: There are many things that separate our generation from our parents'. For one we text with our thumbs not with our index fingers. Silly, I know, but that's just the beginning of an almost endless list of differences. According to my mom, people under 20 are taking much longer to grow up. We don't seem to be able to plan in advance, when applying for jobs we often explain when we are available and are less concerned about what we can do for employers. We are all doing 50 things all the time, but we don't seem to have the same focus our parents did. What drives these changes?
Interviews: Parents, all student body.
Why: I think students would get a laugh out of all the things parents think about us and little differences like the way we text and the things that annoy us about our parents.
4.Timing of Comedy (A&E)-inspired by a magazine article I saw. IDK the title...
IDEA: This would be mostly a graphic with captions, but it could be accompanied by an article. So we create a timeline for comedy. The first part are things that have happened too recently to make jokes about. Then some subjects that will make good jokes now (Justin Beiber, inception...) and then things that are over, you've missed your chance so leave it (Lost. SADLY, It's over.Celebrities etc.)
INTERVIEWS: anyone in the MA community.
WHY: I think it would be interesting to see what people think are the funniest things happening right now, what jokes have been killed etc.
5. Let Them Eat Cake (Feature)
Idea: There are birthdays happening all the time. We could find out what people think are the best birthday activities, traditions they have, and even the best types of cake. Could incorporate this with something about all the new MA faculty babies and baby birthdays.
Interviews: all MA student body, Epicurean staff?, Pilar, Jenny, Hideko, Travis.
Why: Just seems lively and could help inspire some new birthday celebrations.
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