Reynolds High School Journalism Institute Participant Testimonials

2009
“It has really been a delight to be here. I don’t know what else to say. I think we all feel the same way. Basically, one of the best experiences I have ever had – not just in journalism, but in educational circles.”
—Rick Burd, Wickenburg High School, Wickenburg, Ariz.

“I am so glad that I decided to come, because I honestly think these two weeks have been enough to jump start and turn around my entire program at school.”
—Sharon Nolan, North Canyon High School, Phoenix

“I know that quality professional development isn’t always something that we get in our home districts, so the opportunity to come here and have a quality program – we know that has an immeasurable impact on our students.”
—Rebecca Gemmell, Escondido High School, Escondido, Calif.

“I can hardly believe how much I have learned while I have been here. This has been an incredible experience, and I know that I will be able to use everything when I go back.”
—Becca Jackson, Douglas County High School, Douglasville, Ga.

“It’s been a really great experience – all the presentations – and I do think that the greatest thing is the networks that we have created. I hope to keep in touch with people. I know for myself that I will be expecting nothing but excellence in what my students will do and I look forward to seeing what others will be doing.”
—Eric Chow, Philip and Sala Burton Academic High School, San Francisco

“I just finished my first year of teaching, and I wish that I had done my first year of teaching after attending this conference.”
—Mark Silverstein, Douglas High School, Douglas, Ariz.

“I feel very energized after this conference for two reasons: one, because the people who put on this conference really validated our profession as teachers. Over and over I hear that and it was so, so nice to hear. And the second reason is being with all these wonderful teachers.”
—Jill Bhowmik, Granite Hills High School, El Cajon, Calif.

“I think we have forgotten, at this point, to thank the American Society of News Editors for their cooperation with the Reynolds Foundation. Hats off to them for recognizing the value of journalism, especially at the high school level.”
—Trampus Willis, South Side High School, Fort Wayne, Ind.

2008
“This institute was nothing short of amazing and lastingly beneficial. I am already a better educator from having this one-of-a-kind professional development. I am indebted and privileged, ready to head back to the classroom with fresh ideas, activities and direction. Thank you.”
—Joshua Fischer, Neel Academy, Macon, Ga.

“This was a fantastic experience that has rejuvenated me. I am really excited to head back into my classroom. I think it will completely change the tenor and structure of my classroom. The speakers have been so impressive. I never expected the level of expertise and professionalism from the speakers. This has been the best workshop experience I have ever had, and it is the best by a wide margin.”
—Jeff Kocur, Hopkins High School, Minnetonka, Minn.

“I feel like a real journalism teacher! This experience will help me create a program worthy of our excellent students!”
—Elizabeth Anderson, New Town High School, New Town, N.D.

“I feel cared for because of ASNE and ASU. It will take some time for me to go through my new and much larger toolbox as an adviser, but I am confident that this experience has prepared me to build a better program for my students and community.”
—Christopher Greenslate, La Costa Canyon High School, Carlsbad, Calif.

“Everything about this institute is professional, relevant and inspiring. I applaud all of the tremendous effort that has gone into this program, from the planning to the execution. I can't think of anything I would change at all. Thank you for a fantastic two weeks.”
—Lori Hart, Cactus Shadows High School, Cave Creek, Ariz.

“(This institute) has been) the experience of my later life as a teacher. I don't plan to retire soon, but I can see the end from here. Coming to a close, my teaching requires tune-ups now and then to keep me contemporary. This institute is just what I need. It will probably be my last university experience. I'm glad it is so positive. Everyone involved planned and implemented so well. There is so much I will take back to my classrooms.”
—Joye Oakley, Norman High School, Norman, Okla.