By Julia Hasler, last updated Feb. 13, 2025
As student journalists and educators, you understand the value of student media, the principles of ethical journalism and why you must be independent of administrators’ control. But not everyone does — and it’s often up to you to help educate them.
One way to do that: Invite them into your newsroom for a visit! Many school board members and government officials — and maybe even some administrators at your own school or college — are unaware of the work you do and the seriousness with which you do it. And there’s no better way for them to learn than to see it first hand.
In some cases, these newsroom visits have even made a tangible difference, including at least one lawmaker who agreed to sponsor New Voices legislation after observing the importance of student journalism.
SPLC Senior Legal Counsel Mike Hiestand recalls that New Voices advocates in Washington state had been working for more than a decade to pass legislation guaranteeing student press freedom when Auburn High School adviser Tom Kaup and his students invited their then-state senator Joe Fain to visit their newsroom.
“[Kaup] said the former senator was so impressed by his students and their journalism program that he quickly agreed to sponsor the legislation,” Hiestand said. “Fain’s genuine enthusiasm for the bill was the spark needed to get New Voices over the finish line in 2018, becoming the 14th New Voices state in the country.”
Whether it’s on Student Press Freedom Day or any other time of year, we encourage you to invite your local officials into your newsroom to better understand the process, work and value of student media. While that is a success on its own, who knows, maybe they’ll end up sponsoring New Voices legislation or help you improve your district’s student media policy.
And be sure to let us know how it goes! Tag us in a social media post and about the visit, or email us at splc@splc.org.
Resources
Research your local officials and their contact information here.
These New Voices talking points and FAQs may also be helpful in explaining the value of student media during the visit.
Sample Invitation Letter
Dear [Name],
[Start by introducing your school, the student publication you are representing and your role within it.]
We invite you to join us on or around Student Press Freedom Day, Feb. 27, for a special opportunity to visit our student newsroom and gain a deeper understanding of what student media is all about. This day serves as a reminder of the essential role student journalists play in shaping campus culture, providing vital information and upholding the principles of free speech and press.
During your visit, you will have the chance to meet our dedicated team of student reporters, editors and photographers and learn firsthand how we identify key issues, investigate and present stories that resonate with our audience. You’ll also see how we navigate ethical dilemmas, manage deadlines and collaborate as a team to deliver accurate and meaningful news.
In addition to witnessing the daily workings of a student newsroom, you will also gain insight into the challenges and rewards of being a student journalist. In a world where press freedom is constantly under threat, our work represents a critical aspect of preserving the right to report the truth. We hope to inspire you with the importance of journalism in shaping a well-informed and empowered public.
[Provide details about when your class or club meets and how they can get in touch to discuss logistics, including getting permission to enter the building. For example: “Our journalism class meets each days from 1:30 to 2:15 and we welcome you to stop by during that time. Please just reach us at the contact information below at least one week in advance so we can work with the front office to set it up.”]
We look forward to welcoming you to our newsroom and sharing our work with you. Your visit will help highlight the importance of protecting press freedom at every level of journalism, from the student press to professional outlets. Please join us to engage with the next generation of journalists.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Student Journalist
[School Name]
[Preferred Contact Information]