Education Reporter

The Lansing State Journal/lsj.com, part of the USA TODAY NETWORK is seeking an education reporter to cover higher education and K-12 schools.

This beat includes Michigan State University and more than 30 public and private K-12 schools in the capital region. This beat includes both daily stories, more in-depth enterprise stories and longer-term investigations.

We are seeking a journalist who wants to lead coverage for the region and the state, excels at source development and enjoys speaking with real people, including parents, teachers and others affected by policy. We need a reporter who isn't afraid to ask the hard questions and doesn't settle for limits set by school districts' PIOs.

Experience with public records requests, deciphering contracts and working with databases is preferred. Equity and inclusion are central to our reporting and we need a reporter who shares the mission of including the vast array of viewpoints in our communities, including a diversity of ages, genders, races, religions and physical and mental abilities.

Lansing is a vibrant community at the center of Michigan's Lower Peninsula and the seat of state government.

Responsibilities:

• Work toward becoming the community's leading voice in education reporting.
• Connect with the community through storytelling.
• Provide thoughtful analysis of complex issues.
• Work with a content coach and digital partners to evaluate what's working and what's not and develop ongoing plans to better satisfy audience needs.
• Collaborate with photographers to provide all appropriate elements for stories. Capture basic photos and video as needed.
• Promote personal brand, the brands of colleagues and the institutional brand.
• Provide great customer service, helping readers find answers and solutions.

• Bachelor's or master's in communications, journalism or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• At least two years of reporting experience in a daily newsroom. Previous education reporting experience preferred.
• Strong communication skills, news judgment and headline-writing ability.
• Strong interpersonal skills, including empathy and compassion.
• Proficiency on social media platforms; including but not limited to Facebook, X, Instagram and Reddit and experience engaging readers in this public space.
• Energetic self-starter and a fast thinker who can spot stories that matter.
• Experience shooting and editing photos and video on an iPhone.
• Ability to multitask and excel in a fast-paced environment under intense deadline pressure.
• Ability to work collaboratively and efficiently with a team of journalists.
• Strong writing, spelling and grammar skills and knowledge of AP style.
• Command of media law and principles of ethical conduct.
• This role requires a valid driver's license, reliable transportation, and the minimum liability insurance required by state law.

1. Your resume - one to two pages.
2. A cover letter that outlines how you would approach the job.
3. Links to 3-6 online samples of your work. Show us what you've produced or had a hand in that best reflects what you can do in your desired role.