APS Communication Department

Staff Media Protocol and Tips

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Media may unexpectedly arrive at your school or site. If this happens, please follow these guidelines.

GATHER INFO

• What is the reporter’s and/or photographer’s name?
• Which station or newspaper does he/she work for?
• Why is he/she there?
• Does he/she have permission from the APS Communication Department?
  • The likely answer is no, as someone from the department will always be on site when a reporter/photographer is expected.

ASK THEM TO CALL THE APS COMMUNICATION DEPARTMENT AT 303.365.7805

• Suggested phrases
  • “The APS policy is to have permission from our Communication Department before allowing media inside a school/site. This is to ensure the safety of our students and staff. Please step outside and contact them at 303.365.7805.”
  • “We are in the middle of classes right now and focused on students. Please step outside and contact the APS Communication Department at 303.365.7805.”
  • “I need to ask you to leave. We are happy to work with you after you coordinate a visit through the APS Communication Department at 303.365.7805. They can help you set up an interview.”

CALL APS COMMUNICATION DEPARTMENT

• Call the APS Communication Department at 303.365.7805
  • If no answer, please call 303.326.2755
  • During non-business hours, there will be a voicemail listing a cell phone number
• Relay all the info you have gathered
• You will be advised on what to do next
  • At this point, the reporter/photographer should be out of the school/site

REMEMBER

• Do not let the reporter/photographer any further into the building
• Do not provide any sort of interview before contacting the APS Communication Department
• If you are asked about something, refer back to the Suggested Phrases category
  • This is to protect you and your rights
  • Remember, nothing is truly “off the record” and something you say could end up on television or in the newspaper!