For Parents
Parents
Critical Information
Press Release Template
Now that the week of Texas Boys State has come to a close, we encourage you to spread the news to your local newspapers, TV stations, radio stations, and blogs. Below is a step-by-step guide and a template for sending out a news release to your local media outlets.
Step 1 — Download the following news release template (in Word document format) by clicking here
Step 2 — Customize the template for your son/student by inserting his full name and the name of his high school in the first paragraph of the release. These sections are noted with brackets and asterisks, such as [**Insert first and last name here**]
Step 3 (optional) — You may also choose to add an additional sentence or two about the specific offices your son/student won while at Texas Boys State or activities he may have been involved in. The best place to include this additional sentence or two is at the end of the first paragraph. For example:
AUSTIN, Tex. — The American Legion, Department of Texas today announced that Jimmy Jones of Austin High School has graduated from American Legion Texas Boys State. During the week, Jones was elected county judge, served as a party whip, and participated in the Boys State band.
Step 4— Save the news release and get ready to send it out to local media.
Step 5 — Identify the local media outlets you plan to contact with your news release. Nearly all news organizations have websites that provide clear instructions for how to submit a news release or a news tip. These submission instructions are usually found under a “Contact Us,” “Submit a News Story,” or “News Tips” link, which is usually found at the very top or very bottom of the page, and sometimes in a left-hand or right-hand menu. Or, you may find a list of staff members for the news organization on the website. If there is no specific instruction on how to submit a news release or news tip, then send the news release as an email attachment to the local news reporter or local news editor. Managing editors, assistant managing editors, and producers (for TV and radio) are also good people to contact.
Step 6 — Send the news release to the media organization and be available in case the reporter replies to your email with further questions and follow-up.
Step 7 — Watch your local newspaper, TV station, or radio station to see if your news story got picked up.
Step 8 — If your news release does turn into a published or on-air news story, we would love to keep track of that. Please notify us of any news mentions at TXLegionBState@gmail.com
— Top of Page —
Parent’s FAQs
Can Parents and Family Attend The Sessions?
Unfortunately, only students accepted to the program will be allowed to participate in program activities.
Can my son Come and Go From the Program?
Boys State is a fast-paced program that requires full attention and complete involvement for the week. Any unique circumstances requiring time away from the program must be cleared with both the Chairman and Director in advance of the program.
What Happens if my son Must Leave Early Due to an Emergency?
Please stay in contact with your city counselors to inform them of any unplanned absence.
How Can My Family Follow Along with What is Happening?
The website will be updated daily with posts and pictures. Also, you can follow us via Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Who do I contact
Contact us here.
— Top of Page —
