Convention events and programs for advisers
The JEA/NSPA National High School Journalism Convention provides extensive programming for advisers, teachers and professionals. This page provides an overview of what is available.
JEA Outreach Academy
8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday
Free • Application process to qualify
Apply online by Feb. 15.
Outreach Academy is a Journalism Education Association initiative to promote diversity in the journalism teaching profession. The Outreach Academy is a free, intensive seminar for publication advisers who need help teaching and advising students in journalism while dealing with issues surrounding diversity.
The program is hands-on and focuses on practical information advisers need.
> Learn more about JEA Outreach Academy.
Questions? Contact davonte@jea.org.
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Preconvention workshop: Advising student media
9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday
$70 • Advance registration required
This spring, NHSJC is offering a hands-on preconvention workshop just for advisers. With a focus on solutions, the full-day class will address common pain points and provide group guidance so participants leave with ideas, resources and tools.
Sign up for this workshop as part of online registration. Limit 40.
> View workshop details here.
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First-time attendee orientation meeting
6 to 6:30 p.m. Thursday
Included with registration
Advisers attending their first convention are encouraged to attend this short orientation, which includes a general overview and explanation of events and how to get the most out of them.
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Adviser kickoff reception
9–10 p.m. Thursday
Included with registration
Following the keynote, this adviser-only reception will give new and returning attendees a chance to meet the Minneapolis local committee, as well as JEA and NSPA board members and staffs. Light refreshments will be provided.
JEA National Student Media Contests judging and dinner
6 to 9 p.m. Friday
The JEA National Student Media Contests offer high school journalists a platform to showcase excellence, earn recognition and receive feedback on their work. With 50 contest categories, we need YOUR help to make this happen. All adult attendees are invited to volunteer to judge, moderate or assist with NSMC — no experience necessary!
This rewarding experience provides valuable networking opportunities. First-time adviser attendees are especially encouraged to participate.
Volunteer opportunites vary based on your availability, with the majority of judging taking place Friday evening. A free buffet dinner is provided to all participating judges.
> Submit the NSMC volunteer form.
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Adviser lounge
7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday and 7:30 a.m. to noon Saturday
Included with registration
Meet with colleagues from across the country in the adviser hospitality lounge. Coffee and light refreshments will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis for adviser and professional attendees only.
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Breakout sessions
8 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. Friday and Saturday
Each convention offers over 300 breakout sessions, many of which are tailored to advisers and teachers. Look for the “Advisers” session track in the mobile app.
Advisers and professional attendees are also invited to submit session proposals to present one or more breakout sessions.
Proposals are due by Jan. 30.
> Visit the speaker portal to learn more.
JEA CJE/MJE certification testing
3:30 to 6 p.m. Friday
CJE applicants • $60
MJE applicants • $85
JEA provides formal, academic certification to help scholastic media teachers and advisers demonstrate professional excellence in the field.
Test takers should bring their own laptop to access the test.
All applicants must be current JEA members. Fees cover a portion of administration, judging, mailing and certificates.
Test results will be sent about eight weeks after the convention. Those who pass the test in Minneapolis will be honored at the fall convention in Orlando.
> Learn more at jea.org.
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Adviser recognition luncheon
Noon to 2 p.m. Saturday
$55 per plate (meat or vegetarian), Advance registration required
JEA will honor spring award and CJE/MJE certification recipients. NSPA will honor Pioneer Award winners. Speakers will include the H.L. Hall National Yearbook Adviser of the Year and the Linda S. Puntney Teacher Inspiration Award winner.
A luncheon ticket is required to attend. Tickets are available to purchase as part of online registration.
Continuing education units
Included with registration
Attendance certificates signed by both organizations are available at convention registration check-in, at the JEA booth in the trade show and at the information desk. These certificates are for advisers only and do not have any university affiliation.
Check with your school district to learn if these certificates will be recognized for CEU credits or professional development.