Education and Diversity Reporter
Education and Diversity Reporter
Summary: The Daily News-Record is seeking a passionate reporter with a keen eye to cover education, school board, universities and culture in the city of Harrisonburg and Rockingham County, Virginia. The education reporter is responsible for covering local school systems, universities and nonprofit activities. The education reporter will become the go-to source for education news in the Harrisonburg and Rockingham area. Keeping up-to-date on issues like school board meetings, representation, nonprofit work and advocacy efforts will be critical for this role. Whether you are a recent graduate looking to get your feet wet in the journalism field, an early-career journalist, or a seasoned professional in nonprofits or education the education and advocacy reporter will leverage social media to push out their breaking stories and keep the public informed.
Responsibilities: • Have an open dialogue with Harrinsonburg City Public Schools, Rockingham County Public Schools, three local universities, technical schools and education nonprofits • Pitch stories on education and advocacy • Write longer-form stories about major education, advocacy, diversity, inclusion and culture topics when needed • Use social media to update the public and search out potential stories • Complete assigned coverage from editor
Qualifications / Skills: • Organized and quick writing skills • Ability to communicate quickly with local school and nonprofit officials • Good character and judgement • Ability to keep track and take notes on emerging trends • Must have the ability to walk long distances • Must possess a valid Virginia driver’s license • Must be authorized to work in the U.S.
Preferred Skills / Qualifications: • Foreign language fluency, especially Spanish or Arabic • Background and experience in journalism/reporting • Experience writing content for print and web using Associated Press style • Experience using social media
Salary and Hours: This is an in-person, full-time position in Harrisonburg, VA with occasional hybrid/remote opportunities. The work environment is a small newsroom.
The Daily News-Record offers competitive pay based on qualifications. Expected work hours are set at 40 hours per week. Flexible schedule. Candidate will be expected to work evenings and weekends when needed. This position will report to news editor Vic Young and managing editor Jillian Lynch. Inclusion in Virginia Press Association awards contest.