Initiation
This initiation planner is intended to help students outline tasks for an induction and help those who struggle with how to plan the event. The only ask we have is for students to be initiated. We neither mandate nor judge where and how this happens. Some schools have a very elaborate induction with an audience, while others have the induction during the school day with their staff. This decision is yours to make. We make no judgment on the type of initiation.
This step-by-step process is intended to help with planning. Some items may not be applicable to all situations. For those who opt for the “regular” or “complex” initiations, additional instructions are at each step as needed. Please remember, the timing provided is an estimate and not a guarantee.
When to start:
At least three months out if doing a more complex initiation. If you’re doing a simple one, this can be done as new members are identified.
Step 1: Establish the type of induction preferred
Some questions to ask:
- If applicable, how were students inducted last year? What went well and what would students like to change?
- What is the induction target date? How much time do we have to plan?
- Are you allowed to have candles at the event?
- How much time will we be able to allocate for the initiation?
- Where will we have the event? (Make arrangements to reserve the area if necessary.)
- Will we have a speaker? If so, who would we like to ask?
- Who else might we invite? Parents? Other students? School dignitaries such as a principal and/or assistant principal(s)?
- Is it at the journalism banquet or other honorific event?
- Are we going to have cake or other food items?
- Which induction script will work best with what you have already discussed?
Answers from the above will help determine the complexity of the induction ceremony. If students want a more complex ceremony, they should help with the planning of the event.
SIMPLE
Induction (possibly in classroom) with only students in attendance. No food or speakers.
REGULAR
Induction in a school building, includes simple food like dessert or appetizers.
COMPLEX
Induction with students and guests in attendance. Food is served. Features a speaker.
Chapter activities
Though the international organization of Quill and Scroll makes no requirements as to the activities of local chapters, many chapters choose to run events, activities and service throughout the year. Quill and Scroll has compiled and developed a series of ideas and tools for advisers and students to use.
Learning-based activities
- AI and photography: With students often using their phone to take photos for student media, this might be a great time to discuss this feature and the use of AI photos from an ethical standpoint — especially since many phones can remove and rework images so easily. This chapter activity involves members examining AI and then their photo guidelines on manipulation and AI.
- AI, content and writing: CNN has highlighted how people are being duped by AI generated content in their social media feeds — including a video about the spread of misinformation by news anchors who were created by AI. Previously, Time even warned about the possibility of fake mug shots prior to President Donald Trump surrendering to the Manhattan District Attorney’s officeAs a chapter, a discussion could center on the importance of discussing AI with readers.
- Making a difference: Previously, CNN highlighted 10 photos that heightened concern about climate change. This activity asks students to examine how what they cover or include could also make an impact and show the importance of the issue.
- Constitution Day: This beginning-of-the-year activity can help you and your students learn about the First Amendment.
- Bring in a pro: It’s always a great time to bring in a speaker. Why not task your Quill and Scroll chapter with finding a speaker and organizing a visit? Have them brainstorm on an area for improvement and then search for local journalists (or nonlocal if they are able) to come and talk about the topic.
- Examining international press freedom: As a Chapter, you can investigate the state of free speech around the world. For those who are interested in international reporting, in any capacity, do they fully understand the risks associated with reporting in war-torn areas or under repressive regimes? Examining the factors that go into a free press, such as a supportive government and populous, are good starting points. Pew Research has broken down some of the aspects that go into maintaining press freedom.
- Mission of journalism: This podcast by Audie Cornish examines not only objectivity, but also public trust and the “shutting out” of news. The podcast includes a journalist talking about covering former President Donald Trump.
- Student press protections: What is the status of the free press in your school and state? Are you one of the 18 states with laws that protect student journalists? What are the policies and guidelines at your school? What is the role of the student press? This could be a great activity in preparation for or following Student Press Freedom Day.
- Why Journalism Matters: Why does journalism matter? Why is it more important than any time in recent history to make sure we cover our local communities? (Hint: many cuts to local journalism have occurred nationwide.)
Morale boosting activities
- Coloring contest: We all like to color, so why not make it a contest?
- Dance party, hot chocolate or board game time: Since student media can be intense, it’s important to plan some downtime. Ask the students what they want to do and enjoy each other. Do they want to bring in board games? A Just Dance party? Sit around and enjoy a hot chocolate together and make a marshmallow structure or create art with found items? Take some time for all of you — including yourself.
- It’s worth a kick: The last few months of school can be filled with heavy decisions such as editorial staff and goal setting for the following year. Before that gets into full swing, why not take some time, grab a kickball and have an old fashioned kickball game for a change of pace?
- Toy/food drive: Quill and Scroll chapters can help others give back to their community. Toy and food drives can provide many people in need with assistance and can serve as an opportunity to get more involved with local businesses and organizations.
Chapter development activities
- Setting next year’s goals for Quill and Scroll chapters : This chapter activity is dependent on what the adviser and students would like. Now is the time to reflect on what your goals and aspirations are for next year’s group.
- Quill and Scroll Induction: Make plans for inducting your members into Quill and Scroll.
- It’s time to recruit: Recruitment shouldn’t be an afterthought. Quill and Scroll chapter members can work together to help plan and brainstorm recruitment ideas.
