The Tribune-Democrat’s Newspapers in Education program continues to serve as a powerful example of how local journalism can strengthen classrooms, enhance learning, and build community engagement across generations.
At the program’s core is a simple idea with lasting impact: using the newspaper as an educational tool to boost literacy, critical thinking and civic awareness.
“We need to continue to teach our young people the importance of local journalism, in print and digitally,” said Sue Sheehan, regional director of audience development at The Tribune-Democrat. “Educators can use The Tribune-Democrat to teach their young learners about the news of the day-local, national, and international, and implement other daily content into their instructional day.”
Today the NIE program delivers more than 500 newspapers to 51 classrooms across 26 school districts in the Johnstown area. This consistent reach is made possible through the efforts of a dedicated staff and strong partnerships with local businesses who sponsor classroom subscriptions year after year.
While much of The Tribune-Democrat’s NIE program remains rooted in print, the publication has taken steps to expand its digital presence. A digital NIE program is already in place with local colleges and will soon reach into area high schools. Plans are underway to launch a new digital partnership with Windber Area High School for the 2025–26 academic year.
The NIE team also keeps the program funded and visible through two community-based fundraising events that have become annual traditions.
The first is the Hot Dogs & Cool Cats contest, a lighthearted and well-loved pet photo competition that engages readers and encourages community voting. Originally launched as Bark Madness, the contest has evolved over the years while retaining its popular appeal.
The second is Morley’s Run, a five-mile walk and run that brings together community members, local sponsors and families. The event not only raises funds for NIE but also helps to build visibility for the program in a positive, family-friendly environment. A new T-shirt is designed for each year’s event and has become a local favorite.
Participating schools in the NIE program span a diverse group across the Cambria County region. They include:
- Alternative Community Resource Program
- Admiral Peary Vo-Tech
- Appalachia Intermediate Unit 8
- Bedford
- Bishop Carroll
- Bishop McCort
- Blacklick Valley
- Cambria County Christian
- Central Cambria
- Chestnut Ridge
- Children’s Behavioral Health
- Conemaugh Township
- Ferndale
- Forest Hills
- Johnstown
- Laurel Valley
- North Star
- Northern Cambria
- Penn Cambria
- Penn Highlands
- University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown
- Portage
- Pressley Ridge
- Richland
- Somerset
- Soaring Heights
- Westmont Hilltop
The Tribune-Democrat’s NIE program continues to prove that newspapers remain a vital tool in education. Through committed local support and a thoughtful approach to both tradition and innovation, this program is helping to shape informed, engaged citizens from an early age.