Phojo, short for photography and journalism, is now in its fifth year at East Mecklenburg High School. What started as a single-semester elective has grown into a small but meaningful program with multiple classes in journalism, photojournalism, and news writing. Phojo also connects with other groups and activities across the school, giving students opportunities to work on real projects that highlight and celebrate our community.

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At its core, Phojo is about more than just learning how to take photos or edit videos. It’s about building connections, practicing communication, and learning how to work well with others. Students get hands-on experience in photography, videography, podcasting, storytelling, and more, while also picking up soft skills like teamwork, problem-solving, and leadership. It’s a mix of creativity, technology, and collaboration that helps students develop confidence and flexibility—skills that are useful in any path they choose.

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What makes Phojo special is the way it brings people together. Students work on projects that matter, often with peers they might not normally cross paths with. Whether they’re producing content for the school newspaper, documenting events, or trying out new ideas, they’re learning by doing—and growing along the way. It’s a space where students can try new things, make mistakes, and discover what they’re capable of.

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To continue offering real-world opportunities to students, we’re seeking support for a few key areas: travel funding, updated equipment, guest clinician and subscription fees, and a computer lab. Our team currently operates out of a single small room in a 75-year-old building, and with more space and resources, we can expand what’s possible for our students and community.