Web stories
Web has become an ever-increasing part of our publication. As editor-in-chief of the newspaper, I manage the overall functionality and appearance of our website, boonepubs.com. I have learned over the last two years with our growing website, web provides many avenues to increase reader engagement. The use of tags, Yoast and SEO allows us to gain traction and visibility. We always use the tags "Boone Braves" and our names, so that if anyone uses a search engine, our stories will populate quickly. The use of hyperlinks also provides readers with a breadth of knowledge extending outside of a story. While my knowledge of web is still growing, knowing how to package pictures, text and other secondary coverage with these search engine tools helps increase overall web visibility essential for any website.
Hurricane Matthew wreaks havoc on homecoming week: After Hurricane Matthew made landfall in Central Florida the week of our planned homecoming, it was necessary to inform students of the changes Matthew made. This story illustrates timeliness, as it was posted immediately upon returning to school. It also contains a human interest element, as it reports the damage local families suffered. It addresses the effect on the Central Florida community and on how Boone rescheduled regularly planned activities.
Blog: Vegetarian experiment provides new options: As part of AP Environmental Science, the instructors ask students to conduct an experiment of being vegetarian for a week. I enjoyed this project because I learned the environmental impacts of vegetarianism. I felt like this was an important topic for me to write, as it pertained to students and gave insight into my passion for environmental issues. This project inspired me to continue being a vegetarian even a year later.
Agosto-Rivera seeks top ranking: This story was emotional for Nicole Agosto-Rivera, so I knew I had to convey her story in a manner that reflected her accomplishments. Nicole strove to be the number one class ranking, and she obtained it. She discussed her struggles as a student and why they continued to push her. Her openness about her struggles and her ability to persevere allowed me to convey this story beautifully. It brought on a new angle that was more than just "I tried and I did it," but more so, "I broke all barriers and earned what I wanted."
Sports coverage and Storify
I chose two of my sport beats because they illustrate different aspects of web. When covering a sports event, we are required to have it turned in to be posted by 10 a.m. the following day. This practically means we must come home and immediately write the story. It illustrates the timeliness and relevance of web. The use of Storify, a timeline creating service, also displays a cross between various web platforms.
Girls swim takes third in metro competition (Left pic: Link to story, Right pic: Link to Storify)