By the time most kids their age are finishing math worksheets or logging off a virtual class, a group of homeschool students from across the Chicago area are busy chasing deadlines, editing copy and debating headlines.
They are the staff of the Raccoon Ruckus Report, a kid-run newspaper created by seven homeschoolers ages 10 to 13 who decided learning could be louder and a lot more fun.
The first issue was published Sept. 20, 2025, and the paper has been rolling out monthly editions ever since, each one packed with original writing, art and ideas dreamed up entirely by its young contributors.
The staff includes homeschool students from several Chicago-area communities, including Hickory Hills, Woodridge, Matteson, Palos Hills and the city of Chicago, forming a tight-knit newsroom that thrives on collaboration, creativity and plenty of laughter despite the miles between them.
The newspaper is published at the end of each month and distributed through social media, homeschool groups, local events, libraries and a monthly email newsletter. Readers can expect a mix of history articles, interviews, creative writing, photography, art submissions, recipes, puzzles and a leadership column, all curated with the enthusiasm of kids who are clearly having a good time.
Sofia G., one of the photographers on staff, said the social side of the project is just as important as the finished product.
“What I like most about the newsletter is that I get to hang out with the girls, joke around, work with them, and contribute to the newsletter,” she said. “I also love that I get to take pictures and show them to everyone in the newsletter.”
That sense of teamwork is echoed across the group. Emma P. said being part of a shared mission makes the work feel meaningful.
“I love working with the girls, it feels great to be part of a team that loves this newsletter as much as I do,” she said. “I also love that we get to showcase everyone’s art and written submissions, and I think kids feel really great when they see their work in an actual newsletter.”
Aliana Z. said the newspaper has become a place to grow, experiment and have fun at the same time. She helps create puzzles and recipe content and enjoys watching everyone improve.
“I love all the new friends I have made,” she said. “My favorite part is looking back and seeing how we have improved on each of our skills and all the fun we have coming up with ideas and designing the newsletter.”
The benefits of the project go beyond writing and design. The kids say the experience has helped them build social skills, organization, editing abilities and confidence, while also learning how to use social media responsibly and work toward shared deadlines.
Emma G., 13, said being part of a newspaper gives kids something they do not always get, a real voice.
“One of the biggest benefits is learning how to use our voices,” she said. “Kids get the chance to share ideas and tell stories that matter to them.”
Seeing their work published builds confidence and encourages kids to try new things, even when they feel nervous. The experience also teaches responsibility, since everyone plays a role and deadlines matter.
The Raccoon Ruckus Report has become something that the kids truly own. It’s where inside jokes sneak into planning meetings, ideas turn into real pages, and confidence grows with every issue sent out. What started as a simple newspaper has become a creative space, a social outlet and a reminder that kids’ voices matter, especially when they’re given the chance to be heard.