2020 Beat Reporting (Small Newsroom) Finalists

Jon Marcus on the Higher Education Beat
Jon Marcus
The Hechinger Report

Comment from the Judges: “In a crowded coverage space, each of these stories found a different angle and offered new insight. They’re so thoroughly reported and well sourced, seamlessly incorporating students’ voices and experiences, alongside research, data and experts’ commentary. “

Education in Minnesota’s Immigrant and Refugee Communities
Becky Z. Dernbach
Sahan Journal

Comment from the judges: “Dernbach’s stories are well-framed; they draw readers in and make the stakes of the issue clear. She applies rigorous reporting to get multiple perspectives and explain the root causes of problems, whether it’s a teacher of color losing her job or first-generation college students struggling to complete college applications.”

Beat reporting – Student Wellness and Special Education
Carolyn Jones
EdSource

Comment from the judges: “Jones tells important stories about how the most vulnerable students are weathering the pandemic and how schools are going to great lengths to meet their needs. She features a rich variety of sources in her stories, including parents and students who speak directly about their experiences.”