Writing letters to the editor can help to influence local policymakers, impact public opinion and can raise awareness of the depth of community concern about zero tolerance policies or your local campaign against student drug testing.

The opinion section is the most widely read section of the newspaper and both journalists and politicians pay close attention to what issues generate community reaction.

Here are some tips to help you and get published:

Be Timely

Ideally you are writing in response to a particular article. Try to respond within two or three days of the publication date.

Keep it Brief

Look up the newspaper’s directions for submissions and determine if they have a specific word limit. Keep your letter short. Editors are more likely to publish a concise letter because they will not have to spend their time cutting it down.

Keep it Simple

Try to stick to one issue per letter. Briefly summarize the article or argument you are responding to in the first sentence and then concisely state your position.

Make it Personal

In your argument, address how the issue personally affects you or your community. Identify yourself as a student, educator, parent or long-time resident. Don’t be afraid to take an impassioned tone. However, avoid coming across as angry or making sweeping attacks.

Incorporate Facts

Whenever possible, strengthen your argument with expert testimony or statistical data, making sure to cite your sources. Be careful not to bog down the letter with too much information not necessarily relevant to your argument.

Suggest Solutions

Suggest alternative solutions that are general but viable options for your particular community. End your letter with a call to action that states why people in your community should be concerned and how they can get involved.

The More Interest, the Better

Whenever possible, encourage others to submit letters as well. The editors will see that this issue is on the mind of many of their readers, increasing the chances that they will publish one of the letters expressing your viewpoint.

Follow Up

After submitting your letter, check all sections of the paper to see if your letter has been published. Many newspapers will want to contact you to verify your authorship so be sure to include your name, number, address, and signature. In some instances letters are used months after submission when they are once again relevant to current events. Try not to be discouraged if your letter is not published. You brought your concern to the attention of the editors. Keep writing.

More Resources:

Drug Education Talking Points

Student Drug Testing Talking Points

More Tips 

Students for Sensible Drug Policy

The Coalition for Higher Education Act Reform

The Media Awareness Project