Take Action: Write a Letter to the Editor

One of the most effective ways to advocate for health education is by writing a letter to the editor of your local newspaper. Such letters reflect the opinion of the community and are one of the most widely-read sections of the newspaper. Here's some tips to get you started...

"Letter to the Editor" Tips

• Letters to the editor usually range from 150-250 words.
• Keep your letter short and make sure your main point is in the first paragraph.
• Personal stories about your children and health education are always more interesting - but don't include any information you wouldn't be comfortable sharing.
• The most important thing to include is that PARENTS support the Health Education Bill.
• Sign your name and include your phone number and address.
• Be sure to e-mail or send us a copy of your letter.

Suggested points about health education for your letter (it is, however, best to write a letter in your own words.):

• This bill makes comprehensive health education part of the core curriculum for Massachusetts public schools. School districts would be required to teach age-appropriate health education in grades K-12.
• Health education saves lives. Our children need access to comprehensive health education in order to make responsible decisions, prevent disease, reduce risky behaviors, and lead healthy lives.
• Making health education part of the core curriculum will allow young people the opportunity to learn about such important topics as: nutrition, physical activity, mental health, safety and injury prevention, reproduction and sexuality, substance abuse, violence prevention and consumer health.
• As a parent, I welcome teacher involvement in my child's education.
• Teachers should be parents' natural allies in teaching children safe, responsible, and healthy behaviors.
• The Health Education Bill ensures that our kids will receive the health education that they need and deserve.
• A broad coalition of over 100 organizations support this bill, including:
  • List 2 or 3 of the CARE for Youth member organizations

* Here is a listing of daily newspapers. E-mail your letter to the address listed. You may want to check the newspaper's requirements. Some publications verify by phone, or in writing that you, and not someone attributing these opinions to you, authored the letter.

Major Dailies

Other Dailies