Local students will showcase their voice

ZANESVILLE, Ohio- Local students got the opportunity to have their voices heard.

The Zanesville-Muskingum County Health Department teamed up with the Zanesville Museum of Art for the 2016 Youth PhotoVoice Project Exhibit.

The project was intended to capture the youth observation of the community through photography and journaling.

Kylie Jones, Community Health Planner, said they’re using the opinion the students provide in their community health assessment.

“They went out and took pictures and they journaled that and we’re using that information that they tell us that they see in the community, the strengths, some of the things that need improved,” said Jones.

Only six students were able to participate. They selected these students by contacting art teachers, youth clubs and through announcements on their social media websites.

“We really wanted to give [the] youth a voice and to get their perspective on living and going to school in Muskingum County,” said Jones.

The students all varied in age, from 12 years-old to 18 years-old and came from three school districts; West Muskingum Local Schools, Franklin Local Schools and Maysville Local Schools.

“We will be displaying those photos and kind of their thoughts and their quotes and what they told us at the art museum,” said Jones.

The opening exhibit will be on December 1st, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. and will be free and open to the public. The exhibit will be displayed until January 1st.