The truth about the Reynolds Institute

When I first learned this was/might be the last year of the Reynolds Institute, I knew I had to apply. I had applied in its first year, but I didn't get accepted. I was bitter. But I'm over it now.

Then, when I found out it was reduced to one week in-person training (and one week online), I was disappointed (and perhaps a bit bitter). But I'm over it now. The pre-institute online training "forced" me to do some reading, thinking and interacting with journalism peers that I really could do on my own. I just needed a bit of a push (OK, the free textbooks and the roadmaps to the resources made the work a bit easier). I've learned quite a bit over the last month, and hopefully I won't stop learning anytime soon.

The Reynolds Institute can't stop either. I know most things usually come down to a matter of money, but this is a valuable resource you are providing high school journalism teachers. And, as Dean Callahan said, journalism is NOT dying, so we need to make sure there is enough interest coming out of high school to keep enrollment up at the best journalism schools across the country.

If the funding is gone for the Reynolds Institute, perhaps the participating schools can continue with institutes for local teachers. That would still require a financial commitment from the universities, but it would eliminate the travel and housing costs. Admittedly four universities doesn't quite reach all the journalism educators nationally, so perhaps the model can be expanded to other competent journalism schools to reach more teachers. And perhaps funding could be provided for those living within the state but not within commuting distance.

Whatever the case, I'm relieved Dean Callahan sees value in the Institute and won't just let it die. I've enjoyed this experience, and I think my students will be better for it.

Kris Urban
Corona del Sol High School
Tempe, Ariz.