He never expected anyone to remember his offhand comment. But one of his students from 14 years ago, Robert Sullivan, did remember. Lease hopes to encourage teachers with this story about a student who didn't forget a friend and teacher. All the negative press teachers get, says Lease, can be discouraging. I thought journalism was the best way to do this well.
Journalism can establish the relevancy of other subjects.
This summer's 10-day outreach program focused on local Native American heritage. Students learned basic journalistic skills during the summer camp and became a tightly knit group as well, learning to appreciate and value their differences. Journalism teaches them that we are part of families. The journalism camp gives them a family. They take care of each other.