The Moor Weekly helps keep Alhambra High School informed by covering events, issues and stories that matter to students. From campus policies to student life, student journalists play a role in helping the school community stay connected. However, journalism now faces growing challenges that extend beyond campus and could affect how communities receive and understand information.
Across California, journalism has experienced significant decline. Newsrooms have shrunk, local newspapers have closed and fewer young people are pursuing journalism careers. According to the Los Angeles Times, California has lost nearly one-third of its newsrooms and about 70% of its journalists over the past 25 years. Efforts to support local journalism have also faced challenges, including changes to proposed funding initiatives intended to strengthen local news organizations.
Much of this shift has been linked to changes in the news industry. Advertising revenue has increasingly moved toward major technology companies, making it more difficult for local news organizations to remain financially sustainable. As reporting resources decline, experts warn communities may become more vulnerable to misinformation and less likely to have access to reliable local reporting.
These challenges can also affect schools and local communities. At Alhambra High School, enrollment in journalism courses has decreased in recent years. Fewer students are signing up to report, write, film and edit stories. While students have joined throughout the school year, maintaining long-term participation has become more difficult.
Last school year, the journalism program had 14 students. This year, enrollment stands at eight students. Although the decline may appear small, student participation remains important because school journalism depends on student reporters to document events, highlight achievements and share stories from across campus.
Journalism extends beyond writing articles or appearing on camera. It involves asking questions, verifying information and representing different perspectives within a community. Student journalism can also help strengthen communication skills, critical thinking and media literacy while providing opportunities for students to share voices and experiences that might otherwise go unheard.
As conversations surrounding misinformation and media trust continue nationwide, reliable reporting remains increasingly important. Student journalists help preserve campus history, highlight student accomplishments and contribute to informed discussion within the school community.
The Moor Weekly serves as a platform for Alhambra students to stay informed, share experiences and strengthen community connections. As journalism continues evolving, student participation remains essential in ensuring campus voices continue to be represented and heard.
