The Dragons Gazette is a student-led digital publication where students have the opportunity to develop real-world journalism, media, and storytelling skills. Through this program, students learn how to research, write, design, and produce content that informs and celebrates our school community.

As members of the Dragons Gazette team, students are expected to demonstrate responsibility, professionalism, collaboration, and leadership while proudly representing Somerset Oaks Academy.

Our program is an award-winning initiative that has helped students grow into confident communicators and creative leaders. Dragons Gazette students have had the opportunity to participate in respected competitions and organizations such as the Pulitzer Center, FSPA (Florida Scholastic Press Association), and JEA (Journalism Education Association), while also producing meaningful publications like our school yearbook.

This class is more than just a course—it is a team committed to excellence. We challenge our students to aim high, work hard, and support one another as they discover their voice and reach their full potential.

The mission of the Dragons Gazette is to empower student voices while developing the skills of responsible journalism. Our student writers and media creators strive to:

• Inform the Somerset Oaks community about school news and events

• Celebrate student leadership and achievements

• Highlight academic programs, clubs, and activities

• Encourage creativity, curiosity, and critical thinking

• Practice ethical journalism and responsible reporting

Through this platform, students gain real-world experience in writing, interviewing, editing, photography, design, and digital media.

Students participating in the Dragons Gazette should strive to:

• Write clear, accurate, and engaging articles

• Meet all assigned deadlines for stories and projects

• Conduct respectful interviews with students, teachers, and staff

• Work collaboratively with editors and fellow team members

• Use proper grammar, spelling, and professional writing standards

Student journalists must follow responsible reporting practices. This includes:

• Reporting facts accurately and avoiding misinformation

• Giving proper credit for quotes, images, and sources

• Respecting privacy and representing others fairly

• Avoiding gossip, rumors, or harmful content

The goal of the Dragons Gazette is to provide honest, respectful, and meaningful reporting about our school community.

Because the Dragons Gazette is a public digital platform, all students must practice strong digital citizenship.

Students should:

• Post content that reflects positively on the school community

• Use respectful language and tone in all writing

• Follow school policies regarding technology and media use

• Ensure all images and content are appropriate for a school audience

The Dragons Gazette is built on teamwork. Student journalists are expected to:

• Support one another during the writing and editing process

• Accept feedback from editors and teachers

• Take initiative when covering stories and events

• Demonstrate leadership and responsibility as representatives of Somerset Oaks Leadership and Innovation

The goal of the Dragons Gazette is to give students a voice while building real journalism, communication, and leadership skills that will help them succeed in school and beyond.

Every article, photo, and story contributes to sharing the voice of the Dragons community.