Editing, Leadership and Teambuilding

When I started at Simpson Street Free Press (SSFP), I was surrounded by high school juniors and seniors who held the position of Teen Editor. They became mentors of mine—people I looked up to. They led me through my early years in the organization and even later as they transitioned to Managing Editors. Over the pandemic, I was promoted to Teen Editor. I never stopped my own reporting, but I also took on a role helping writers as young as seven years old cultivate their literacy skills.

With students so young, it goes without saying that my job as an editor is different from others. At SSFP, editors are trained to a curriculum designed to support learning. Before a student even starts writing, I will sit down with a student to close read their source and solidify their understanding of their topic. This includes looking up words in the dictionary, talking through complex topics, and supporting them in structuring their article.

When I edit with a student, I have the student read aloud to me, aiding them with any tough words or concepts. I then read it aloud to them, making my edits along the way. I explain each change I make and also ask the student to provide their own input as the writer. This process takes place on paper, helping the student visualize the changes being made.

This is one of my favorite parts of my job because I get to learn through the students' eyes. I learned a lot from the Teen Editors when I was in their place, and I hope they can take just as much from our editing and close reading sessions.