Lakewood District students will have a unique opportunity this fall to build community, share their voice, strengthen literacy, promote their schools and learn more about the newspaper’s role, all through a partnership between The Simple Gifts Fund and The Sampson Independent.
Aptly called the Lakewood District Community Schools Literacy Partnership, the initiative will provide a free local newspaper to every Lakewood District student and their parents, as well as staff members, every Wednesday beginning Sept. 2 and running throughout the school year.
Carla Sutton, who recently retired after years as the Hobbton High School media specialist, will be the educator liaison leading the project. Teaming with Sampson Independent publisher Sherry Matthews, the pair will be opening doors for students to become active participants in the newspaper, drawing editorial cartoons, taking photographs, writing stories and, in turn, using the paper to learn more about what goes on in their communities, turning to it rather than just social media as a means of garnering and sharing information pertinent to their schools and their towns.
“I am excited to collaborate with The Sampson Independent on this innovative project, and I can’t wait to help share the stories, accomplishments, and everyday successes that make the Lakewood district a special place,” Sutton said. “Together, I hope we can build a culture of literacy that not only benefits students today, but also strengthens the entire community for years to come.”
In addition to the weekly newspaper, The Sampson Independent will publish a student-generated special Schools and Community insert every nine weeks featuring news and accomplishments from across the Lakewood District. This student-produced magazine will showcase student writing, artwork, and school events. It will be produced and designed by the students.