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

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

Our award-winning program has empowered students to grow into confident communicators and creative leaders. Dragons Gazette staff members have participated in prestigious organizations and competitions such as the Pulitzer Center, FSPA (Florida Scholastic Press Association), and JEA (Journalism Education Association), while also producing meaningful publications, including our school yearbook.

More than just a class, Dragons Gazette is a team driven by excellence. We encourage students to think critically, work collaboratively, and strive for their highest potential as they discover their voice and strengthen their impact through journalism.

The mission of the Dragons Gazette is to empower student voices while developing the skills of responsible journalism. Our student writers, editors, 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 extracurricular activities

• Encourage creativity, curiosity, and critical thinking through meaningful storytelling

• Uphold ethical journalism and responsible reporting standards

Through this platform, students gain hands-on experience in writing, interviewing, editing, photography, design, and digital media production, preparing them with real-world communication and leadership skills that extend beyond the classroom.

Students participating in the Dragons Gazette must strive to:

• Write clear, accurate, and engaging articles

• Meet all assigned deadlines for stories, projects, and media content

• Conduct respectful interviews with students, teachers, staff, and other interviewees

• Work collaboratively with editors and fellow peers

• Use proper grammar, spelling, and meet professional writing standards

Student journalists must follow responsible reporting practices. This includes:

• Reporting facts accurately and avoiding misinformation

• Giving proper credit for quotes, images, sources, etc.

• Respecting privacy and representing others fairly

• Avoiding gossip, rumors, or other harmful content

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

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

Students must:

• 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.