Newspaper Articles and Letters:

• Composed articles allow the story to be presented the way you want and are also free column space for the newspaper.
• Ensure that the articles are well-written, using normal newspaper style.
• Present the essence of the issue in the first paragraph, and build in more detail, with quotations and sources in later paragraphs.
• Letters to the editor often have a better chance of getting printed than prepared articles.
• Keep letters short and relate the message to previous news coverage.
• Letters to the editor are more effective if several people write letters on the same issue.

Radio Interviews:

• Prearranged telephone interviews allow the spokesperson to be prepared and to have some information on hand for reference.
• If you get a surprise call and are not prepared, ask the interviewer to call back in thirty minutes and gather your thoughts.
• Jot down key words in the questions and repeat them in your answers; at the same time get out the important points of your campaign.
• Live face-to-face interviews are more demanding. Use spokespersons that are experienced and familiar with the issues.
• Keep answers relatively short and use key phrases of the campaign, which have the potential to become "sound bites" for further coverage.
• Refrain from speculation and clearly identify personal opinions.

Television Coverage:

• Television crews usually cover only significant events, newsworthy throughout their broadcast area.
• Coverage is more likely when there is action and strong visuals.
• Events such as demonstrations, confrontations, and civil disobedience need to be carefully controlled so that negative coverage can be avoided.
• Positive events, such as offering solutions or better alternatives can be presented in interesting and attractive ways to invite television coverage.
• Use experienced spokesperson(s), with visual support from students and parents.

Press conferences:

• Press conferences should be called to formally present major issues and events.
• They should be carefully scripted, with clear objectives and prepared speakers.
• Notify all media two to three days in advance.
• Press conferences are normally held in a central location, with facilities for the media.
• Copies of supporting documents, handouts and names and phone numbers of contact people should be available to journalists.
• Attention should be given to visual effects, such as a prominent display of the name or logo of the organization, a supporting crowd of parents and students, signs and posters, etc.
• Refreshments and snacks will encourage journalists to remain for additional questions and further contact with the organization.