Unknown Organization

Since 1988, when the Supreme Courts decision in Hazelwood effectively denied public school students their freedom of the press, Youth News Service Los Angeles has filled a first amendment gap. And in addition to publishing L.A. Youth, which has become the nations largest independent newspaper written by and about teens, the organization has established itself as a strong advocate for youth. With a lean staff of only 4 FTE, however, the teens themselves are the organizations most powerful advocates. In issue after issue of the newspaper, they prove not only their capacity to discuss issues with candor, but also to explore solutions to some of the greatest challenges that adolescents face.The 28-page newspaper that is published six times per year and the excellent website, www.layouth.com, are created by a diverse group of students. Public and private school students, foster youth residing in group homes, youth detained in juvenile justice facilities, and formerly homeless youth all have