K-12 Policy Investigative Journalist

We're seeking an Education Investigative Journalist to join our team. You will report on critical issues affecting schools, districts, education policy, students, and teachers within a specified geographic area
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Responsibilities include conducting in-depth investigations, interviewing stakeholders, writing accurate, engaging, and balanced long-form stories, and upholding the highest journalistic integrity and standards.

Candidates should have strong research skills and the ability to illustrate stories using data and analytics. The right candidate must have a passion for uncovering systemic issues in education and a proven ability to craft compelling narratives for public consumption.

This role blends the investigative rigor of journalism with a focus on the education sector, making it ideal for those who want to hold institutions accountable while informing the public about the challenges and opportunities in education.

Core Responsibilities
• Research & Investigation: Conduct in-depth research into education-related topics, using FOIA, public records, policy documents, and data sources to uncover hidden issues
• Interviews: Interview educators, administrators, policymakers, students, and community members to gather firsthand perspectives
• Story Development: Write detailed, factual, and engaging articles or reports that explain complex educational issues to the public
• Fact-Checking & Ethics: Verify all information, uphold journalistic integrity, and maintain confidentiality when handling sensitive data.
• Collaboration: Work with editors, other journalists, and possibly education experts to ensure accuracy and depth.
• Public Engagement: Present findings in a way that is accessible and thought-provoking, often highlighting systemic problems and potential solutions.
Skills & Qualifications
• Research & Analytical Skills: Ability to analyze data, identify patterns, and interpret policy impacts
• Writing & Storytelling: Strong narrative skills to communicate complex topics clearly.
• Ethical Judgment: Commitment to truth, fairness, and accountability in reporting.
• Technical Skills: Familiarity with public databases, spreadsheets, and data visualization tools for investigative work.
• Networking: Build relationships with educators, policymakers, and other journalists for access to information and story leads..
Education & Training Path
• Formal Education: Bachelor's degree in Journalism, Communications, Political Science, Education, or a related field. Education journalism preferred.
• Practical Experience: Internships or work in student media, newspapers, or online publications to build a portfolio.
• Specialization: Optional certifications in investigative techniques, data journalism, or fact-checking can enhance expertise. FOIA experience.
• Portfolio Building: Publish investigative education stories in reputable outlets to demonstrate capability.