Portledge in the Now.

The NEW Student-Run Portledge Press: From Paper to Plugged-In!

By Eden White
In an era where digital media reigns supreme, transforming traditional school newspapers into online platforms represents a significant evolution in student journalism. At Portledge School, three rising juniors had a vision last January and by May, the first online issue of the Portledge Press was born.
In an era where digital media reigns supreme, transforming traditional school newspapers into online platforms represents a significant evolution in student journalism. At Portledge School, three rising juniors had a vision last January and by May, the first online issue of the Portledge Press was born. Mason L. ‘26, Kyle L. ‘26, and Caroline M. ‘26 met with Ms. White, who agreed to serve as their faculty advisor for this endeavor. Together, they presented the Communications department with their proposal for the new Portledge Press, complete with article ideas, logos, and potential web platforms that would integrate with the school’s existing systems. The Communications Department could not have been more supportive and led Mason, Kyle and Caroline through the process of what it takes to create successful content, layout and effective student communication with the Portledge Community.

With that, they set out to encourage their peers to join in through their own interests in photography, creative writing, layout design and research. In their first outreach form, they received responses from almost 50 students who were excited and willing to participate. 


Supported and guided by the wisdom and experience of Ms. Ruth Ashby, who once taught journalism and served as the Faculty Editor-in-Chief of the Portledge Press (in print), the energy grew. Ruth Ashby, once again serving as our dedicated copy editor, was fully on board with the project. A highlight for all was reviewing the articles written by students from years past, witnessing how time changes perspective and how students have evolved, while still having the opportunity to witness many of the documented Portledge traditions of the past through articles and pictures.

Within a period of three months, the students had an official logo and a web platform and began writing. Articles stemmed from interviews regarding the new AWC Building, reviews on our school Musical of Chicago, and spotlights on faculty and students’ successes. Our first edition, released at the end of the 2023-2024 school year, marks a new chapter in our school's journalistic endeavors.

Looking ahead, the student-run Portledge Press is poised to become a vital part of our school's culture. With the continued mentorship of our dedicated faculty and the enthusiasm of our student team, we are committed to producing high-quality, impactful journalism through the eyes and voices of our students. The goal for the 2024-2025 School year will be to create three on-line publications, with the goal of creating more in subsequent years. 

Click here to read the Portledge Press!


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