A press release is often the first encounter a media outlet will have with your GLOBE story or event. While you want to be thorough and include all information and underlying data, you also need to be succinct. The first paragraph should include the "five W's" -- who, what, where, when, and why. Don't forget, your first goal is to interest them to attend your event. If you have a high-profile person who will attract media, include his or her name in this first paragraph.
The next paragraphs should include an expansion on the purpose of the event, and some history of what led up to it. Include some brief background material on any special people who will be in attendance. The release should include a quote from a GLOBE spokesperson, such as a Country Coordinator, or a GLOBE teacher or student. This will very often be the quote used in the print media, so make it count. Finally, include a brief description of GLOBE, which can be found on the GLOBE Web site. Go to www.globe.gov and click on the “About GLOBE” tab.
The form of the press release can vary. There are, however, a few elements common to all press releases. At the top of the page, on letterhead stationary if possible, center and type "PRESS RELEASE.” Next list the current date, the date the information is to be released, and name, phone number and email of the media person to whom you are sending the press release. End with "# # #" centered and typed at the bottom of the release. (See example of a Press Release)
The GLOBE Program encourages you to send a press release to the media each time the following GLOBE activities occur: signing of bilateral agreement to join GLOBE, student measurement milestones, Train-the-Trainer workshops, regional GLOBE games, awards ceremonies/presentations, students chosen from your area to represent your country and participate in a GLOBE Learning Expedition.
Timing the release is important. If your event is planned well in advance, it is good to mail it or fax it at least a week ahead to ensure its inclusion on calendars. All press releases should be followed by a phone call to ensure that the information reaches the appropriate contact.
A basic point to grasp in working with the news media is that reporters are in the business of providing news stories and are constantly in need of a fresh supply. Therefore, your story fills a need and in order to promote your work and to build and strengthen the image of GLOBE in your schools and in your communities, you need only to make your story as newsworthy as possible. Be focused and accurate. The reader should be able to grasp the essence of the story after finishing the first paragraph, known as the lead. Writing a story can be fun and seeing your story in your local news media is even more so!