When will the High School Investigative Partnership Program application close?
The application period will close on May 6 at 11:59 p.m. ET. Late and incomplete applications will not be accepted.
As a teacher, what is the extent of commitment for this program?
As the teacher, you will be expected to incorporate the investigative project into your curriculum. This includes allocating time for one-hour trainings each month, coordinating time for the coaches to meet with the students during class time, making sure that the students are given class time to work on their investigative projects, and reviewing and editing the students’ projects throughout the process among other responsibilities. Since this program will take up classroom time and additional work for the teacher, we will provide an instructional stipend and will require approval from the school administration from the selected school.
Does my school administration need to agree to this before I can apply?
Not necessarily. We strongly recommend that you speak with your administration before applying but it is not required. Please note that if your school is selected, we will require written school approval before anything can be confirmed. If that cannot be provided at the agreed upon period prior to the start of the program, then the selection will be rescinded.
What types of trainings will the students have?
We will work with the teacher and students to determine what topics would best suit the needs and interests of the class, but they should have an investigative focus. For example, previous high school trainings that we have done include topics such as how to integrate data and databases into stories, how to conduct background research, interview tips, and how to make stories people-driven.
I work at a year-round school. Would my students be eligible?
Absolutely! Just keep in mind that this program is going to operate on a traditional calendar schedule. We will begin in the fall and finish in the spring. We will not be working with schools on this project during the summer.
I work at a middle school and feel that my students are very capable of being successful in this program. Can I apply?
No, this program is solely for high schools.
Is this program available for both public and private high schools?
No, this program is solely for public high schools.
I really want my class to participate in the program but I will not be able to dedicate any class time to it. Can I still apply?
Unfortunately, no. While we know it can be difficult to allot time during class for outside programs, this is an intensive program and students must be given adequate in-class time to work on their projects and receive trainings. Also keep in mind, by investing the time in this program, you will ultimately equip your students with the real world skills and applicable knowledge needed for post-secondary and professional success.
Does my school need to have a journalism class/program to qualify?
No. In fact, we realize that many schools do not. As long as you can show a willingness and plan for integrating journalism lessons into your class, you are eligible.
Does my school need to be a Title I school to qualify?
No. But we strongly encourage schools in high need areas to apply. Like much of what we do, our aim is to provide more access to investigative journalism to individuals who haven’t typically received it.
Can you tell me more about how the previous high school investigative partnership program went?
Check out just a few of the stories that have delved more into the work that we have done thus far during the ’21-’22 school year with Riverside High School in Durham, NC.
I submitted my application and haven’t heard anything. Can I receive an update on the status?
Due to the high volume of applications, we are not able to provide individual updates. If you are selected or if we need more information from you, you will be contacted directly by the Ida B. Wells Society.
I have additional questions.
Email us at idabwellssociety@unc.edu
