JEA Reflections
We left Phoenix early on Sunday after spending three days at the JEA/NSPA Spring National Convention. Students were provided with a forum for critical engagement with peers, advisers and experts in their respective field, be it print, broadcast, yearbook, photography, etc…
Much like previous conferences, the sessions were informative, interactive and worthwhile. Of course, there were some sessions that need to be reviewed and perhaps eliminated, but I’m sure the folks in charge understand they’re going to put out a dud or two.
It’s unfortunate when one of the biggest flame outs of the convention just happens to be one of the keynote speakers. However, that is the way I felt about Mary Beth Tinker.
Obviously, I commend and respect her highly for the stance she took in 1969. It’s just that her experiences didn’t translate very well orally. Provided an hour to address those in attendance, Tinker spent far too much time on trivial bits of information and did not save enough time to discuss her own situation and how things really went down that day some 40 years ago.
I wanted to hear her story, and how her experienced changed the face of student expression the first amendment. I was disappointed.
Hey, it happens.
Another quick downfall of Tinker’s address was the hall in which it was held. On the whole, the new Phoenix Convention Center is wonderful. But the room where Tinker spoke was dingy, concrete, had poor sound quality and obstructed views. Two years ago, in Denver, keynote addresses were held in the beautiful Wells Fargo Theater. Yes, it was too big, but it was appropriate. Last year, in Anaheim, the room was carpeted, sound receptive and aided by the presenter appearing on big screen televisions.
Here’s hoping Portland can put together a couple better keynote speakers, and a wonderful environment for the presentation. I am already looking forward to the event. I have never been to Portland, but admire the beauty of the pacific northwest.
Well, it’s back to work. Research in English 9, feature writing in journalism, a yearbook supplement and our final edition of the RV Xpress newspaper.
Now, how many more days of school?
