I don’t know about you, but I’m getting a little frustrated with the endless stream of negative news that floods our email, TV, and newspapers. I know that great things are happening in our community, but all we seem to hear about is how our economy and our young people are heading south. You have a great opportunity this year to share the good news about what your students are doing, and the good news is you can do it without adding anything else to your “to-do list”.

Start by delegating responsibility and empowering a student to serve in a leadership role as your class Reporter. You may choose one per class period, or one student overall. Charge this student with the task of finding out what great things your students are doing, connected to your course, and writing up a short report each month. You can even rotate student Reporters monthly to give more students an opportunity to participate. Post these reports on your school website, send in to your local newspaper, and email a copy to your local radio and TV stations. Your students may even want to start a blog, which is free and easy. (Don’t know how? Ask your students. I’ll bet you’ve got a few blog-savvy students in your classes!) Ask your school administration to include the report in any letters mailed home to parents, or updates to parent booster clubs.

If you manage a student organization or club, you may already have officers. Take this chance to check in with your student leaders. Are they publicizing your program to their best ability? Remember, they may need a little guidance to get going, but after they do, they’ll be off and running!

Remember, there are great free resources online! Check out how to write a press release  and how to write a newspaper article.