About

InFocus Editorial Policy
Palo Alto High School Broadcasting Program

Mission Statement

InFocus is a student-run broadcasting program committed to providing accurate, timely, and engaging news content to the school community. Our goal is to inform, educate, and entertain while upholding the highest standards of journalistic integrity, fairness, and responsibility.

Editorial Independence

While InFocus operates under the guidance of faculty advisors, editorial decisions—including story selection, content, and production—are made by student journalists. Faculty advisors provide mentorship and ensure that content adheres to school policies and professional journalistic standards. The administration does not engage in prior review or censorship, except in cases involving legal or ethical concerns.

Content Standards

Accuracy & Fairness

• All reports must be fact-checked, sourced responsibly, and presented without bias.
• Corrections will be made promptly if errors are identified.
• InFocus will seek diverse perspectives to ensure balanced and fair reporting.

Ethical Guidelines

• Sensationalism, misinformation, or fabrication of any kind is strictly prohibited.
• Student journalists will respect privacy and obtain consent when necessary, particularly in sensitive situations.
• The program will not air content that is defamatory, discriminatory, or violates school policies.

Editorial Decision-Making

• Story selection will be based on newsworthiness, relevance to the student body, and alignment with InFocus‘s mission.
• Content related to controversial or sensitive issues will be handled with extra diligence, ensuring fairness and responsibility.

Broadcast Standards

Production Quality

• InFocus strives for professional-level production, including clear audio, well-framed visuals, and high editorial standards.
• All graphics, captions, and visual elements must be accurate and appropriate.

Student Contributions

• Students may submit content ideas or segments for review, but all contributions must adhere to InFocus‘s editorial guidelines.
• Any guest appearances or interviews must be approved by the editorial team and faculty advisors.

Advertising & Sponsorship

• InFocus may feature school-approved sponsorships, but advertisements must align with the program’s values and school policies.
• Sponsored content will be clearly labeled to maintain transparency.

Corrections & Complaints

• If a factual error occurs, InFocus will issue corrections promptly on-air and/or online.
• Viewers with concerns about coverage can submit feedback to the editorial team, which will review and address complaints as necessary.

Social Media & Online Presence

• InFocus may distribute content through digital platforms, maintaining the same journalistic and ethical standards as on-air broadcasts.
• Comments and interactions on social media should be professional and constructive.

Review & Amendments

This editorial policy will be reviewed annually by the student editorial board and faculty advisors. Amendments may be made to adapt to evolving journalistic practices and school community needs.

Adopted on January 31, 2025 by the InFocus Editorial Team