Welcome

Dear students, 

Thank you for applying or reapplying for a position on the newsmagazine/online staff. We are looking forward to working with you throughout the year. 

The ODYSSEY Media Group is a student-run news organization that operates as a convergence model, where student journalists produce a range of content that is published both in our Newsmagazine, social media, YouTube and on our website. 

The purpose of the ODYSSEY program is to inform, entertain, and give voice to the Clarke Central High School community. The ODYSSEY program provides students the opportunity to become journalists through rigorous hands-on training. Students will interview stakeholders in the CCHS and Athens communities, write a variety of story genres from breaking news to editorials, learn how to create multimedia and quality designs, and explore other areas of journalism such as broadcast, podcast, and photography. Throughout the learning process, students will learn how to work within a team and grow personally and professionally with the support of the Production staff. 

Being a part of ODYSSEY is more than just being in a class. It is a part of something larger in the community and it is an award-winning program. You should be proud to be in the program and proud of the work you get to do. Make sure that you enjoy your time in ODYSSEY and take advantage of the opportunities for growth. 

By being in ODYSSEY, you are committing to journalism and the standards we abide by. Your commitment goes above and beyond the assignments in a typical classroom. You must be able to communicate with staffers, hold yourself accountable and push yourself to achieve everything you can. Luckily, you won’t have to do this alone. You need to rely on the other staffers and editors and understand what you are expected to do. 

The Cabinet and Mr. Ragsdale are excited to be working with everyone during the 2024-25 school year and see everyone’s passions be portrayed through journalism and individual growth. 

Sincerely, 

2025-26 ODYSSEY Media Group Cabinet

Staff Handbook

The ODYSSEY Staff Handbook provides instruction and explanation of the staff 's procedures -- it breaks down everything from the production of the Newsmagazine and website to the standard protocol of Room 231. Each staff member is expected to thoroughly read and understand the contents of this guide and must keep their copy of the handbook with them at all times.

Every publication has a specific style for its writing, design and process of production - this booklet is your guide to the ODYSSEY's style. To maintain consistency in our Newsmagazine, online publication and social media platforms, as well as understanding among our staff members, we use this as a foundation for our work. This guide is a helpful tool for both newcomers and veterans alike and should be referred to many times throughout the year. 

Included in this handbook: tips to improve writing, interviewing and designing; major AP Style laws to abide by; description and duties of the Editorial Board positions; class procedures outside of the website and magazine production; and in-depth guides to the many aspects of the ODYSSEY's work -- Viewpoints, News, Variety, Features, Sports, Photography, Broadcast, Social Media and Web Management.

This handbook should be with you whenever you engage in ODYSSEY tasks. 

VISION STATEMENT

The ODYSSEY Media Group is available to voice the concerns of the Clarke Central High School and Athens communities, to promote truth and transparency in times of unease, and to deter inaccuracy and the spread of misinformation.

ODYSSEY MEDIA GROUP