Stop the presses! Carl Stoffers, associate editor of The New York Times Upfront Magazine, visited Bruriah’s AP English Literature class to see the magazine used in a classroom setting and to discuss journalism and reporting. Guided by teacher Margueya Poupko, students read the article “A Drug of Mass Destruction” by Stoffer, and followed it with a stimulating discussion on the rise of the opioid crisis in America. Questions and comments bounced between students, Stoffers and Poupko, as the conversation escalated with suggestions of ways to stop the crisis and how it’s specifically relevant to each and every American. Stoffers answered questions on the nature of opioids and the crisis, using the information he gathered from interviewing and investigating for the piece. The conversation diverged into discussing his work as a journalist. Students learned about his education, career, and the work that goes into writing a piece like the one they had read. The class was a fascinating and unique opportunity and students left the classroom feeling more knowledgeable and empathetic, as well as inspired and empowered.

By Elisheva Hirsch (‘19)