Northeast Ohio high school students gathered on January 10, 2026, to kick off the Cleveland Media Academy at the cleveland.com newsroom. This intensive eight-week course aims to provide aspiring journalists with vital skills and insights from experienced professionals in the field.
The program began with an introduction to the core principles of journalism, followed by a session led by Julia Washington, a health reporter for cleveland.com. Washington focused on essential techniques, including how to formulate incisive interview questions, effective note-taking strategies, and the disciplined habits necessary for crafting polished stories.
Following her instructional segment, the students engaged with Terry Pluto, a renowned sports columnist for cleveland.com and The Plain Dealer. Pluto captivated the audience with his exploration of the nuances of sportswriting, drawing from his extensive career. He recounted significant moments and shared anecdotes that illustrated the importance of building a network in journalism.
Pluto’s early experiences in writing provided a surprising insight into his career path. He shared a unique story from his high school days: “I was writing about my freshman football team, after my English coach told me I had potential. The kid who originally made me quit football was actually reading my paper, which I thought was super interesting,” he remarked.
The Cleveland Media Academy serves as a platform for students to learn from established journalists while developing their own skills. The next session is scheduled for January 17, 2026, continuing the Academy’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of reporters.
Participants like Andrew Davey, a high school student involved in the program, reflect the enthusiasm and dedication present in the Academy. As students delve deeper into the world of journalism, they benefit from the expertise and experiences shared by professionals, preparing them for future endeavors in the media landscape.
