Staff organization
La Voz News is staffed by students in journalism classes at De Anza College. Editors are often chosen by a committee of former editors and reporters and the adviser. Editors generally have previous reporter experience. Editor positions are open every quarter; applications are due the last day of the quarter. Apply by emailing the adviser. Interviews usually take place during exam week for editors who will serve in the following quarter.
The editorial board is chaired by the editor-in-chief and meets regularly to make content decisions. The board includes the faculty adviser, the editor-in-chief, managing editor and section editors for news, opinions, features and sports, who have been interviewed and selected by a committee of La Voz staff. The editor-in-chief may appoint additional editors to the editorial board.
The editor-in-chief, chosen by the adviser, is ultimately responsible for all content of La Voz, including news, editorial, print and online content. The editor-in-chief makes sure all staff follow the Code of Ethics in their duties.
Section editors report to the editor-in-chief and are responsible for their section as a whole, doing whatever it takes for their section to be completed. Section editors assign stories, photos and graphics to staff. Section editor positions include opinions, news, features, arts and entertainment, sports, social media and design.
Assistant editors
Assistant editors report to their respective section editors. They assist the editor in production with duties such as creating slugs and assisting reporters. They should learn the responsibilities of an editor while doing their reporting or photographic duties. Reporters cover the news as directed by La Voz editors. Reporters accept assignments from editors and inform editors about possible stories.
Reporters
Reporters may write news, features, sports or opinion stories and are responsible for submitting their own stories, photos and videos. To take advantage of on-the-spot material, reporters should carry writing materials and a camera or cellphone while on campus.
Freelancers
Freelancers who enroll in a freelance JOUR 62 class have the privileges of the La Voz staff. They can use the newsroom, attend classes and meetings and seek advice from the adviser. La Voz News may accept material from freelancers not enrolled in the freelance class, but those students do not have staff privileges. Freelancers may fall into the following categories:
Photojournalists and videographers are responsible for photographic coverage of assignments. They must write cutlines (captions) for their photographs and ensure the completeness and accuracy of the information accompanying assignments. Likewise, videographers are responsible for shooting and editing video of assignments. Photographers, like reporters, should inform editors of photo possibilities. To take advantage of on-the-spot material and wild art photo opportunities, photographers should carry a camera while on campus.
Graphic artists create cartoons, infographics, illustrations and photo illustrations for La Voz. They must pay attention to accuracy, relevance and clarity of information.
Web and social media assistants
Copy editors assist with editing and proofreading copy either online or in draft printed version. They apply English grammar and Associated Press style to reporters’ copy.