Welcome.
Thank you for being a
part of Paw Prints,
WHHS’s finest (and only)
school newspaper!

BASIC CLASS STRUCTURE
Although most of the time in class is not structured, and
a lot of the time is self-directed (in other words– you get
done what you’re supposed to!), you will quickly notice
that the newspaper goes in cycles. We start by brainstorming for the coming issue, which is followed by a flurry of writing, deadlines, editing, deadlines, page set-up by editors, another deadline, and finally printing and distribution. We then start the whole cycle over again. It’s fast-paced, fun, and rewarding. Good times had by all.

GRADING
Much of your grade is in your hands. You are responsible for filling out and submitting a report every week that lists and tracks the work you are doing for the paper, meetings you have with the staff, ads for each issue, book work I’ve assigned, etc. You will turn in a packet every Friday, earning a minimum of 5o points weekly. Ability to make deadlines is a key part of your grade.

CALENDAR
There is always a calendar posted in the back that lets you know what deadlines we are working against, what book work is due, and what you should be working on. Since we produce about eight issues a year, the pace is pretty steady– keep up with your work as falling behind affects the entire paper and staff!

FYI
•As a member of Paw Prints staff, you are expected to meet production deadlines; therefore, if you are running behind, you are expected to do what it takes to catch up, including coming in early and giving up lunch to get work done on time.

•Turn in every article expecting to have to do several revisions. We push every writer to the next level so that all work is high quality, organized, developed, and thorough. Editors will have certain vision and needs for their sections, and Mr. Brent desires grammatical perfection, so please be diligent and patient in the editing process. If you will not be in class, can’t meet a deadline, need help– basically any issue that will affect the newspaper’s production and staff– let an editor AND Mr. Brent know immediately!

•In Paw Prints, you have the special privilege of being able to be on campus during the period. PLEASE do not abuse this privilege as it can and will  be revoked. You will have a press pass that must be worn if you are out with Mr. Brent’s permission on official Paw Prints’ business. The bathroom is a solo adventure– don’t ask to go in packs. Your Paw Prints period is NOT the time to go to counseling, turn in library books, pay fines, talk on cell phones, or to take care of other business.

•Please treat this class like any other: Arrive on time. Tardy policy will be just like in any other class. We like you. We want you here with us… on time!

•Just because you write it doesn’t mean it will be published, in full or part. Some articles will need to be abridged, others lengthened, and if something is inappropriate or space is limited, it may need to be taken out. Editors and Mr. Brent always hold veto power. Paw Prints has high standards of dignity, class, and style that we are striving to uphold.