Who is this program for?

Press Pass NYC is a program for any and all NYC public or charter schools who do not already have a thriving student newspaper.

How much does the program cost?

Press Pass NYC’s programming is completely free. Additional costs may include online publication web hosting fees, teacher per session, and field trip transportation expenses.

What does the application and full program timeline look like?

Step 1 (rolling): School representative completes online application, followed by a consultation meeting with Press Pass NYC staff.

Step 2 (spring-spring, year 1): Lead teacher/adviser applies for and participates in the Journalism Adviser Fellowship program.

Step 3 (spring-spring, year 2): Aspiring student editors apply for and participate in the Student Journalism Leaders Fellowship program.

I’m a professional journalist and I would love to volunteer to speak to students; what is the time commitment?

We invite professional journalists to share their experiences with students to whatever extent best suits them, be it a single visit with students at a single school, or visits to several schools over the course of a year, virtual or in person. Simply fill out the form below.

I’m a journalism student and I would love to be a classroom mentor; what is the time commitment?

We ask journalism students to help a classroom teacher get their school’s newspaper up and running by committing to working alongside the teacher and students in the classroom on a mutually agreed upon one-period-a-week schedule. In addition, journalism student mentors will be asked to complete a three-hour pre-service training course. In exchange, Press Pass NYC will provide mentors with a $50/week stipend.

I’m a NYC public school student and I would love to start a newspaper at my school; what can I do?

First, congratulate yourself on having the wisdom and courage to bring something so important to your school that will have such a lasting impact. Second, let your teachers know what you’re thinking and tell them about Press Pass NYC. Third, download this email template to customize and send to your school principal. Together, we can bring the power and privilege of student journalism to your school!