Read All About It! Tyler Elementary Students Become Young Reporters

Learning is making headlines at Tyler Elementary School, where student voices are taking center stage through the Tyler Tomcat Times, a new student‑led newspaper created by some of the school’s youngest learners.

Designed to introduce journalism at an early age, the newspaper provides students with an opportunity to explore writing, creativity, and leadership before many traditional extracurricular activities are available. Teachers recommended students in grades 1–3 who showed an interest in writing, storytelling, or creative expression to participate. 

The young reporters meet once a week before school, with additional support provided during core extension times. Working in small, same-grade groups, students research topics, write articles, and edit their work with guided support, gaining hands‑on experience throughout the publishing process. 

“The newspaper club has empowered younger students to share their ideas and take pride in their work. It has boosted confidence, strengthened literacy skills, and helped students feel more connected to the school community,” shared Stephanie Richards, reading specialist at Tyler Elementary. 

Through their work on the Tyler Tomcat Times, students are developing a wide range of academic and social skills. They write and edit for an authentic audience, conduct interviews, and practice note‑taking. Collaboration, communication, critical thinking, organization, and responsibility are woven into each step of the process. Creativity also plays a key role, as students design layouts, craft headlines, and add illustrations that bring their stories to life. 

"Our newspaper club has provided a wonderful opportunity for authentic learning. Students are not only writing but also integrating many skills to get to the finished product. This has included planning the layout and sections of the newspaper, researching, interviewing, and publishing," said Jennifer Perilla, principal at Tyler. "Under Mrs. Richards's guidance, they have done an outstanding job sharing relevant and entertaining information with our school community." 

Each edition of the newspaper is published digitally using Canva and shared with families and staff through the school’s weekly newsletter. Teachers also receive a QR code, allowing students to access the paper easily on their iPads. Every new issue has generated excitement and pride across the school, as students eagerly search for familiar names, events, and stories featured in its pages.