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Veritas staff say aging computers and staffing strain hampered paper; committee offers support
Summary
Student staffers reported trouble finishing the school newspaper this year because of low interest and aging layout computers. Committee members encouraged recruitment and offered logistical and funding help.
Student staffers reported to the School Committee on May 6 that the Veritas school newspaper struggled this year with low participation, production delays and outdated equipment.
A student presenter said the paper "wasn't the most successful year for Veritas, unfortunately," describing difficulty recruiting students to finish publication work and noting a shortage of functioning layout computers. "As of right now, we only have 3 computers that have our layout software on them," the student said, and added that layout on the old machines can take hours per page.
Students and committee members discussed funding and staffing options. A staff member confirmed Veritas advertising revenue goes into the student activity account. The committee's tech director, Stephanie Hoban, was identified as a district contact to explore obtaining additional layout computers or software access. Committee members applauded the student editors for keeping the paper alive and offered help with recruitment, workshops and outreach.
Student presenters suggested training workshops for younger students, increased computer access and mentorship from experienced staff as steps to stabilize the paper. The committee offered to assist with recruitment materials and exploring whether the district can provide additional layout-capable machines.
No formal vote or budget action occurred at the meeting; students were encouraged to follow up with the superintendent’s office and the district technology director about equipment needs and possible student-activity account support.
