The Oaklandside is launching a reporting fellowship for high schoolers

The Oaklandside is launching a reporting fellowship for public high school students in the Oakland Unified School District, aiming to address pressing challenges in their education. The program will enable students to work alongside journalists, allowing them to define issues and propose actionable solutions. Selected fellows will receive a $1,500 stipend upon completion, providing them with valuable experience for their future careers. This initiative arises amid ongoing struggles for OUSD, which has seen only a third of its students meeting state English standards and a quarter in math, far below California averages. The achievement gaps are more severe in schools predominantly serving lower-income students of color.

The fellowship will conclude with a community event, fostering dialogue among local education stakeholders about the insights gathered. Applications must be submitted by November 30 to be considered. The program seeks to empower student voices while promoting solutions to the district's challenges.