Every summer for 14 years, I have traveled home to teach high school students everything I know about journalism… it’s a short workshop.

Seriously though, I think it is great to give back by giving a leg up to the next generation of journalists. Some students decide newspapers are not for them but at least they were given the chance to make a choice before going to college.

Fifth grade students get to go outside and practice using cameras.

This year, the Journal Scene embarked on such a mission by signing up to Adopt-A-Teacher at Summerville Elementary. The paper, along with other area businesses, has partnered with the school to bring “real world experience” into the classrooms. The Journal Scene staff goes to the classroom every week and teaches the students a different aspect of the newspaper process. The program is an initiative that pairs individuals, businesses or civic groups with specific classrooms to teach students about different jobs.

So, I was asked to come teach the students about photojournalism as they learn all about newspapers. I teach a workshop every summer to students, how hard could it be? Really, I’ve photographed presidents, rattlesnake hunts and many unpleasant accident scenes… this would be a piece of cake.

Nothing makes you more self conscience than 21 sets of eyes watching as you try to make what you do sound like fun for an hour. Some stared as if they were interested, others whispered to classmates and a few thought the wall was more interesting than my speech. My favorite part, though, were the questions. How far can you see with that camera? Is the camera heavy? Can you take my picture? All important questions.

Those not taking pictures had fun playing and posing for the camera.

It got better when I took them outside. Four cameras and 21 students translates into pure chaos. The doors opened and they charged out of the classroom like the building was on fire. As some took photos, others posed or ran around playing. They scattered and I never really knew where everyone went. Can’t blame them, the weather was great. It was like herding a swarm of bees as we moved from one subject to the next. Everyone got a chance to take pictures and I can’t wait to see how they turned out.

I am proud to say, though, they did listen when I asked them to always put the camera strap around their neck.

Though I played but a small role in the class, it was fun being around the kids. They have so much energy and everything is new and exciting to them. I also gained another level of respect for teachers like Mrs. Thompson. How they do that everyday… amazing people!

Soon stories and photos will be complete and the class will start designing ads for actual clients and laying out the paper. The final edition will be inserted into the Journal Scene May 21.

Ms. Thompson's 5th grade GATE class.

I am sure other businesses involved are enjoying their time in the classroom. I only hope this trend continues as more people get involved and give the students a chance to see what opportunities are out there.

Who knows, we could see a photojournalist emerge and that is the icing on the cake.