In an effort to promote the fact that Ohio public schools are excellent places to educate the state’s children, the Ohio School Boards Association launched its Media Honor Roll program in 2002. Now it’s time to select honorees for the 2009 OSBA Media Honor Roll.

Reporters have the power to shape and influence community attitudes about public schools, and the Media Honor Roll is an excellent way to recognize fair and balanced education reporting. As advocates for our students, we should not oppose reporters who fairly cover our schools’ shortcomings. We also should work closely with local media to prevent unfair “school-bashing.

The OSBA Media Honor Roll recognizes media representatives in print, radio and television. Winners are chosen because they:

• work to get to know the superintendent, board president and district communication director, as well as the district’s mission and goals;
• report school news in a fair, accurate and balanced manner;
• give a high profile to positive news about schools;
• visit schools;
• maintain a policy of “no surprises,” by always giving school officials the opportunity to comment on information to be aired or published.

If there are reporters or media outlets covering your district deserving such recognition, nominate then below. You also may download, complete and fax the form to (614) 540-4100, or e-mail it to g_motz@osba-ohio.org. The selection deadline is Sept. 14, 2009. You can download a sample board resolution to use to recognize your honorees.

You may select as many media representatives or outlets that you feel deserve this recognition. OSBA will provide personalized certificates that can be presented at your November board meeting and a sample resolution that can be used to honor the reporter(s) or news organization(s). A list of winners will appear in an upcoming OSBA publication.

We appreciate your participation in this event, which will aid you in creating positive working relationships with your local media and help ensure fair, balanced reporting.

Please contact Gary Motz to confirm that your selection has been received or if you have any questions about the program. He can be reached at (614) 540-4000, (800) 589-OSBA; or g_motz@osba-ohio.org.