The History of North Scott High School and The Lance News:
A Legacy of Learning and Leadership
North Scott High School, nestled in the heart of Eldridge, Iowa, first opened its doors in 1959, bringing together students from the surrounding rural communities. It didn’t take long for this new institution to become a cornerstone of the local educational experience, laying the foundation for what would become a vibrant and engaged student body. But one of the school’s standout features, since the very beginning, has been its dedication to student expression and media. Enter The Lance News, the school's long-running newspaper, which has documented not just the day-to-day happenings, but also the growth, challenges, and successes of generations of students.
A Strong Start in 1959
When North Scott High School first opened its doors in 1959, the community came together to establish a sense of pride in the new institution. It didn’t take long for the students to begin contributing to the school’s growing identity. The school's newspaper, initially a small, modest publication, was one of the first avenues for students to express their thoughts, ideas, and creativity. The newspaper, soon dubbed The Lance News, quickly became the voice of the student body, covering everything from athletic events to the latest academic achievements. The very first students that were apart of The Lance were, Editor-in-chief: Bev Spies, Managing Editor: Kent Snyder, News Editors: Sue Ewoldt, Dave Barnet, Sports Editor: Bill Bayles, Elementary Editor: Joyce Burmeister, Production Manager: Janelle Steward, Typists: Harry Reese, Daryl Mohr, Loretta Johannsen, Cynth Oetzmann, Lorraine Harlinger, Joanne Mess, Arlene Gronewald, Judy Rohlk, Judy Kluever, and Mary Orendorf, and Faculty Advisor: Howard Sible.
In those early years, The Lance News was a simple newsletter-style publication, but it was already making waves as students began contributing stories, art, and editorials. As the years went on, the newspaper evolved—mirroring the growth and development of both the school and the community around it. Its pages began to fill with more polished content, reflecting a deeper connection between students and their school.
The 70s, 80s, and 90s: A Period of Growth
The 1970s marked a significant period of growth for both North Scott High School and The Lance News. The school expanded its curriculum, and the student body increased in size, with more students involved in extracurricular activities like music, drama, and sports. This expanded participation translated directly to the pages of the newspaper, as the staff sought to capture the diversity of student life.
By the 1980s, The Lance News had grown into a fully-fledged newspaper, with multiple sections ranging from news and sports to features and opinion. Students weren’t just writing stories; they were also learning about journalism as a profession. This was a time when the role of high school newspapers became more serious, with students tackling real-world issues that affected their community. The newspaper became an important platform for discussing everything from social issues to local politics, and the students who worked on it learned valuable lessons in writing, editing, and teamwork.
In the 1990s, as technology began to infiltrate daily life, The Lance News started incorporating new methods into its production. The internet became a tool for research, and students could now use it to gather information for their stories. Computers replaced typewriters, and the students found themselves using word processors and desktop publishing software to create professional-level layouts. This shift was part of a larger trend that saw the newspaper evolving from a print-only publication to something that embraced technology.
21st Century: Embracing Digital Media
As the new millennium arrived, North Scott High School and The Lance News adapted to the changing landscape. The digital age opened up new possibilities for student journalists, who were now learning to produce content not just for the paper, but also for the school’s website. With the rise of social media platforms, The Lance News also began experimenting with ways to share stories beyond the traditional newspaper. These new platforms offered an opportunity for students to connect with the broader community and engage with the world in real-time.
Despite the rapid changes in technology and media, The Lance News continued to serve its core purpose: providing a platform for students to express themselves, explore their interests, and connect with their peers. Whether it was covering a big school event, spotlighting a unique student project, or discussing a hot topic in the world beyond the classroom, The Lance News became a reflection of the spirit and energy of North Scott High School itself.
Today’s Lance News: A Student-Driven Legacy
Fast forward to today, and The Lance is as relevant and vibrant as ever. Now, as a fully digital publication, it continues to serve as a hub for student expression. The staff is made up of passionate writers, photographers, and designers who work together to create a newspaper that covers the news, events, and issues that matter most to the North Scott student body. The commitment to journalistic integrity, student-driven content, and community involvement has never wavered.
The newspaper’s presence today reflects the strong connection between North Scott students and the larger world around them. The Lance gives students the chance to develop critical thinking skills, collaborate on projects, and develop a deeper understanding of the world of journalism and media. In addition to the core team of editors, reporters, and photographers, students across all grade levels are encouraged to contribute their voices—whether through writing articles, submitting artwork, or providing feedback on the content.
Looking Back, Looking Forward
As North Scott High School celebrates its rich history, it’s important to remember the key role The Lance has played in shaping the school’s culture. From its early days as a small newsletter to its current incarnation as a digital publication, the newspaper has not only chronicled the history of the school but also provided a space for student voices to flourish.
For students today, The Lance represents more than just a high school publication. It’s a place where creativity meets communication, where learning extends beyond the classroom, and where every student has the opportunity to contribute to something meaningful. As the school continues to evolve, one thing remains constant: the legacy of The Lance is firmly rooted in the student-driven spirit that has defined North Scott High School since the very beginning.
So, whether you’re picking up a copy of the latest issue or reading the latest online post, remember that you’re part of a legacy that stretches all the way back to 1959. And who knows? One day, you might be the next journalist, editor, or photographer contributing to the rich history of The Lance. The journey of North Scott High School and The Lance continues to unfold, and it’s an exciting time to be part of it.
