Johnston Journalism Teacher Receives Big Accolades for Her Contributions

A Johnston High School journalism teacher recently received some high praise for her contributions to the profession.

Leslie Shipp recently was recognized by the Journalism Education Association for her five years as a state director. She also received a 2012-13 Foundation grant, which will be used to purchase new camera lenses for her classroom.

JEA vice president Sarah Nichols wrote a letter to the high school, thanking Shipp for her service.

“As state director [Leslie] plays an integral role in connecting teachers in your state to each other and to the larger journalism education community. State directors share best practices in teaching and help their colleagues gain access to educational resources, scholarship opportunities, mentors and more. We are so fortunate to have Leslie’s leadership in the JEA. Journalism teachers are often among the busiest on staff, advising student media and taking part in multiple activities. To serve other teachers in your state and at the national level is a big time commitment and often a thankless job.

As our conventions and other activities address Common Core standards, 21st century skills and other important educational initiatives, we are so glad to have Leslie demonstrating the commitment to ongoing professional development with the support of a meaningful professional learning community and to serving other teachers. ”