The Reasons

Naturally, engaging students in the creation of an indie zine comes with several important reasons.

First, large classroom sizes affect students' ability to learn (not to mention, over-work our teachers). Creating a zine from beginning to end, is service-learning at its best. Our children will learn how to plan, write, edit, work independently and together in groups, research, interview, prioritize deadlines, etc., etc. (the list goes on). And the best part: all of this hard work culminates in a tangible product--a zine--of which they can feel proud.

(And then they get to do it all over again.)

Second, there is a lack of extracurricular activities at our school site. Having a dedicated day and time for the on-site creation of a zine builds synergy among our children, teachers, parents and community. Everyone benefits. This is demonstrated by the results of our county's SUN (School's Uniting Neighborhoods) model. Our public space is under-used, but it has the potential to be filled with meaningful activities that challenge students and enhance their learning in the classroom.

Third, Portland Public Schools faces a $27.5 million gap for the 2012-13 school year. In order to make up this loss, fundraising is key. Students can help by selling their zine to our community. While zine sales is a very small drop in a very large pond, our children will feel a greater sense of purpose. And our school will receive funds. After all, every bit counts.

Finally, the creation of a zine meets 19 of the 40 Developmental Assets for Middle Childhood. These 19 assets are:

3. Other adult relationships
5. Caring school climate
6. Parent involvement in schooling
7. Community values youth
8. Children as resources
14. Adult role models
15. Positive peer influence
16. High expectations
17. Creative activities
18. Child programs
22. Learning engagement
24. Bonding to school
25. Reading for pleasure
27. Equality and social justice
28. Integrity
32. Planning and decision making
37. Personal power
39. Sense of purpose
40. Positive view of personal future

Developmental assets are building blocks for lifetime success. While a zine won't change the world, just like other positive activities, it has the potential to increase our children's resiliency and to help them thrive.

After all--and as said before--every bit counts.