The Pine Needle, StC's student-run publication, returned to its roots this year! Guided by Editor-in-Chief Patteson Branch ’25, the paper has witnessed a revitalization due to historic levels of student involvement. As most publications have transitioned to a digital format over the years, Branch has reintroduced The Pine Needle as a newspaper.

The return to print has given The Pine Needle a burst of fresh energy. In one year, the total number of students contributing to the paper has increased from two to over thirty. Upper Schoolers contribute to writing, photographing, and designing the layout. “The issue we put out in September was a big turning point,” said Branch. “We had this proof of concept and could show people, ‘Hey, you can write for an actual paper!’”

Last year, the future of The Pine Needle was in question. Along with Editor Mac Dixon ’24, Branch helped maintain a digital-only version. However, readership plummeted as the Upper School implemented its new cellphone-free policy on campus, and the two found it difficult to carry on with so little student input. “It was sort of just me in the fall,” said Branch. “There was a lot of conversation about whether or not this would even exist next year.”

Branch spent the summer forming a new vision for The Pine Needle. It had to return to print. “This is our opportunity,” said Branch.”We had interesting stories to tell and had to get them in front of as many people as possible.” 

To return to the old format, Branch consulted with former StC journalism teacher Kathleen Thomas and created a new layout from the ground up, learning the design software on the go. Branch made fliers and announcements to drive interest, hoping to recruit new talent. The energy grew, students were encouraged to be creative, and their efforts were visible in each new issue. 

Now, the paper has a healthy roster of younger students ready to assume leadership roles next year. “All of this was rooted in this belief that these stories matter,” said Patteson. “This is what Mrs. Thomas instilled in me as a freshman. The stories we publish in The Pine Needle are interesting, and people will come to it.”