Editorial Policy

The Blazer is a student-run newspaper publication that includes both an online and print. The Blazer is a place for a student journalist to educate and entertain the public and student body. It is a place of discussion and expression of concerning issues.

The Blazer accepts feedback from anyone who feels they have a concern or an issue with the content we promote and produce.

Censorship Policy

Even as a student publication, The Blazer is required and responsible for following a code of ethics. We [The Blazer] are given the same rights as professional journalists (according to the Kansas Student Publication Act) and are not permitted to produce content that could be considered libelous, slanderous, or illegal. The staff is also restricted from promoting/producing anything that would cause disruption within the school.

Letter to the Editor

The Blazer values feedback as a staff. If you have any comments or concerns you may write a letter to the editor. This letter would express your comments and concerns in a formal and clear manner. The letter may be edited for grammar, spelling, and other considerations. Letters that are considered, unethical, slanderous, or illegal will not be posted or printed. The letter should be approximately 300 words and must include the writer’s name, signature, and role in the community. You may give this letter to the journalism adviser (Kristy Dekat) or mail it to the Blazer Newspaper at Gardner Edgerton High School in a sealed envelope. The Blazer will then address your concerns in the matter it requires. If you express other concerns or issues, our editorial board will schedule to meet with you to work out and discuss any unresolved issues.

Copyright Policy

Any content produced by a student journalist is the property of Gardner Edgerton High School Media until the student graduates. Student photographers cannot sell or distribute any content taken with journalism equipment. Students are not permitted to use content protected by US copyright law. Any outside organization requiring student photographs, stories, or other student-created materials must get permission from the student and adviser and proper credit must be obtained.

Corrections Policy

When discovering a mistake or issue in the printed publication the staff will print the correction of the mistake in the next issue. Corrections for The Blazer Online will be corrected immediately upon noticing them. As a staff, we will always take the swiftest course of action to correct mistakes. Illustrations or photographs may distort the appearance of public figures but not to an excessive degree. Public figures include those who are prominent in their community and or are appointed to public office. Students are not considered public figures. Illustrations will not be made to make someone appear foolish and will follow the code of ethics. The Blazer will also follow the invasion of privacy laws and standards. Photo credits will be given to all photos and creations. Photos submitted by students, parents, or faculty will be credited with “submitted by” and then their names.

Social Media Policy

The Blazer utilizes three social media platforms including: Twitter, Instagram, and Tik Tok. Our handles are linked on our website as well as provided in our print issues. All information posted on social media follows our censorship policy and any social media post found to be incorrect will be deleted immediately.