Establishing a Special Program for Journalism at Spottswood National High School a Feasibility Study
Authors: Castino John Michael P. , Pante Ricky B. , Daguman Reah Jean B. 
Published: December 2024

Spottswood National School has been the center of excellence in Kidapawan City Division since the time it was established 23 years ago. Over the years, it has consistently performed excellently in various fields of learning. Just recently, the school was able to produce winners in the 2024 Regional Schools Press Conference (RSPC) in Tacurong City and qualified for the 2024 National Schools Press Conference in Cebu City. Combined with the previous victories of the campus journalists and school paper advisers and with its competent human resource, the school has the potential to teach and train the children in the field of journalism. In this connection, the school is now eyeing to put up a Special Program for Journalism to provide the learners the appropriate platform to showcase and harness their journalistic prowess. The implementation of the said program will also allow the teachers to institutionalize the teaching of journalism. Based on the recent environmental scanning of the school administrators and the teachers of Spottswood National High School, the school is more than equipped to take on the challenge of piloting the very first batch of Special Program in Journalism in Kidapawan City District-III. It has the ample physical facilities such as Computer Laboratory which can accommodate 50 learners at a time.

The school also has available cameras, software and other ICT equipment, and classrooms to serve as newsroom and instructional venues intended perfectly for children who have journalistic skills. With these physical facilities, the learners will not only learn how to read and write but also learn 21st century skills as the main advocacies of the K-12 Curriculum. Moreover, the curriculum will integrate theoretical knowledge with practical skills, providing experiential learning in the field of journalism. This holistic strategy aims to equip students for advanced study and prospective professions in media, communication, and associated disciplines. The program will encompass multiple topics, including print journalism, broadcast journalism, internet media, and investigative reporting, while incorporating essential topics such as ethical considerations, legal issues, and journalism’s societal function. Students will have the chance to undertake internships with local media organizations and will engage in the creation of their own school journal or news website, thereby gaining practical experience. Spottswood National High School is located at the Barangay Poblacion, Kidapawan City.

It is a reputable public secondary institution that caters to a varied student body. As indicated in the surveys, KIIs and FGDs, the demand for specialized educational programs in this area has been increasing, especially for those that equip students for professional employment in media and communication. This trend underscores the potential value of introducing a journalism program at the school. Nevertheless, the feasibility of this study relies on several key assumptions. Firstly, there is an assumption that the researchers will gather significant data that would support considerable student interest in studying journalism as a career due to the rising demand for media workers in the locality. Secondly, local media organizations are expected to collaborate with Spottswood National High School by offering internships, mentorships, and collaborations. Thirdly, the institution is anticipated to receive essential resources, including digital tools, printing apparatus, supportive school heads, and qualified teachers, to efficiently execute the program. Fourthly, it is presumed that a thorough and flexible curriculum has been designed already to satisfy the educational criteria established by the Department of Education. Finally, there is an anticipation of sustained financial backing from local government units, educational budgets, and possible collaborations with local media or private sector organizations. Preliminary surveys and assessments suggest favorable conditions to implement a Journalism Program at Spottswood National High School. The current infrastructure of the school, along with an increasing student interest in media occupations as as supported by KIIs and FGDs with the learners and parents from the feeder schools renders the introduction of this program viable. Securing sufficient financing and resources will be essential for the program’s success.

The summary of findings showed that: a) survey and KII results revealed substantial interest from learners and parents, confirming a strong market for the SPJ program aligned with their aspirations; b) the survey highlighted strong interest and enrollment potential for SPJ, emphasizing the need for targeted outreach to address hesitations and maximize participation.; c) SPJ emerged as the most preferred academic track among learners and parents, reflecting its unique appeal and alignment with modern educational needs; d) the program’s success requires enhanced resources, partnerships with media organizations, and structured planning to meet its technological and infrastructure needs; e) identified risks, such as maintaining enrollment and securing resources, can be mitigated through proactive recruitment, stakeholder engagement, and diversified funding.; and f) with strategic budget planning and external funding, the SPJ program is financially viable, promising long-term benefits for students and the community