Writing for Publication
Simpson Street Free Press (SSFP) students produce six newspapers and publish content on a variety of media platforms. Students research and write about the core subject areas (science, geography, history, financial literacy and college planning). Students polish their skills in an authentic workplace. They use modern technology. They have business cards, real assignments, and real deadlines. Programs are designed to build content area knowledge and academic confidence. Methods include close reading, fact checking, spelling, drafting, and citing sources. Our mantra is “never hand in a first draft.”
In this formula, young SSFP writers deliver compelling content to their peers. Our target audience is kids and families. SSFP student reporters, and the publications they produce, inspire young readers across Wisconsin. SSFP publications encourage exploration and cover academic topics. We also operate a network of youth book clubs and an all-academics youth center.
Simpson Street Free Press (SSFP) is an extended learning model. We use a content specific curriculum designed to supplement classroom instruction. SSFP is a project-based approach, designed to support the classroom but not replicate the school day. We structure these programs like part-time “jobs.” So, all SSFP programs are free of charge. Parents meet with staff at program enrollment and sign engagement letters.
