Laws
My personal press freedom notes from Journalism I.
As a student at Dowling Catholic High School, a private Catholic institution, the student newspaper adheres to a set of standards distinct from those found at public schools. While journalistic integrity and the principles of truth, fairness, and accuracy remain paramount, our publication also respects the values and teachings of the Catholic Church. This means that our content often takes a more measured approach in areas related to sensitive topics, such as gender identity, sexuality, and religious doctrine. Unlike public school publications that are bound by First Amendment protections, Dowling Catholic's student newspaper operates within the framework of Catholic teachings, which can influence editorial decisions and the way certain issues are addressed. This unique dynamic requires a careful balance between upholding journalistic standards and respecting the school’s religious identity, ensuring that our coverage reflects both the diversity of student voices and the values upheld by the institution.
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Despite attending a private institution, News Media members are still required to learn the tenets of press freedom in the prerequisite course, Journalism I. We are taught about the significance of First Amendment rights, the complexities of censorship laws, and the landmark Supreme Court cases that have shaped student journalism. Although these rulings, such as Tinker v. Des Moines and Hazelwood v. Kuhlmeier, which began right here in Iowa, primarily apply to public schools, they remain vital to our education as they reflect key legal boundaries of storytelling and the power of the press, even in a private school setting. ​​
Ethics
In addition to foundational journalism ethics like verifying facts, crediting sources, and honoring confidentiality, an added layer comes with attending a Catholic institution. For example, when one News Media member pitched an article about the difference between federal and state abortion laws ahead of the presidential election, it was imperative that the topic be approached objectively and without bias. This approach ensured that our reporting remained consistent with journalistic integrity while being mindful of the values upheld by our
taken from the Gender Identity Guide and Policies by the Diocese of Des Moines.
Catholic school community. Another ethical consideration arose when one staff member asked to add her preferred pronouns to her byline. In this case, the Gender Identity Guide and Policies of the Diocese of Des Moines instructs that all official documentation must reflect a person’s biological sex, and the use of preferred pronouns is not allowed. This created a unique challenge, requiring us to approach sensitive topics like pronouns with a balance of respect for individual dignity, professionalism, and adherence to the school’s stance on gender identity.
News literacy
In my three years as a student journalist, one of my biggest frustrations has been hearing someone say, "I don't like to read the news because it's all negative." I understand that with so many difficult and disheartening events happening in the world, consuming the news can feel overwhelming or even discouraging. However, staying informed is crucial to understanding the world we live in and the decisions that shape our lives. As The Dowling Catholic Post has shifted from a barely surviving newspaper to one that is beginning to thrive, I am gifted with a platform to enhance news literacy in our community by breaking down complex issues and fostering dialogue. I hope to show that the news is worth consuming and worth consuming not just passively. It is a tool for empowerment, education, and change.