Idea File Fall 2024

12 | Picture This

Future Leaders. The media team from Prince George High School poses for a photo on the steps of the Virginia General Assembly. This happened during their visit to Richmond, Virginia, in January 2020. Their school’s location allowed them to meet local and national candidates . Photo by Chris Waugaman

WHAT SHOULD WE DO NOW? The election is just a few short months away, so plan now. First, find out who on your staff is interested in following this topic. If you don’t have someone invested on staff, maybe you can ask some of your history and government teachers if they know of any top students who would want to help out.

Like any other story or topic, after you assign reporters, develop a plan for coverage, layout and publication. Have a list of contacts and websites that your reporters and editors can contact now to plan for the end of summer and fall. Reach out to the local offices of your state senators and members of Congress to see if you can interview them early. Once you have local contacts, they can assist you when the national candidates visit.

Photo by Chris Waugaman