The First Amendment meets the Fourth Estate in government class

In one senior government class, multiple choice tests on the Bill of Rights were passé. Instead, our journalism teacher stepped up to the lectern and suddenly the First Amendment became very real.

These students didn’t spend the semester with their noses in a textbook. Three faculty experts—Kimberly Gomez, journalism teacher and Conservatory for the Arts Director, Tina Zapata, Social Studies Department Chair and Dean of Faculty, and Julie Daniels, Assistant Librarian—teamed up to support and guide them through the process of conceiving, researching and producing a news documentary.

Ms. Gomez introduced the basics of broadcast journalism and asked students to choose a First Amendment right that ignited their curiosity. She explained the importance of fact-based reporting. Students consulted experts, sorted through a diversity of opinions, and backed up their points with research and court cases.

Maeve Davitt ’19 reports on the freedom of the press for her documentary project.

Within weeks the girls brought their talents to life as news anchors, graphic artists, video editors and interviewers. Some drew on recent First Amendment cases, including free speech controversies on college campuses and a Supreme Court ruling that protected the freedom of religious expression.

One group chose the Right to Petition and used the project to illustrate the role that ordinary Americans have in shaping our country’s policies. Their documentary featured video montages of citizens addressing Congress on immigration and climate change.

“The Right to Petition is important because it demonstrates everyone is empowered,” said Catie Sanchez ’19 as she leaned against a library shelf.

“We have a voice in our system and it represents that we’re a democracy and that everyone has the right to say something and voice their opinion to the government to make changes.”

Mrs. Zapata hoped the assignment would be “more relevant and exciting than just listening to me talk.” Students affirmed her goal.

“In contrast to one-dimensional assignments, this project presented an opportunity to really explore the specifics of the First Amendment in a creative format,” said Elisa Gonzales ’19. “By unifying visual cues through the video, which naturally enhanced my ability to recall the information, I got the opportunity to craft my project the way I wanted.”

Alexxa Riley ’19, who is co-editor in chief of the Mayfield Crier student newspaper and intends to pursue a career in journalism, said she benefited from the group work.

“The interaction with my group was helpful,” she said. “As I grow older and get a job, I know that I will be able to collaborate with my coworkers and put my best foot forward.”