• Providing interviews, information and contacts for the media;
• Planning media events to promote a specific issue or initiative, including press conferences and briefings;
• Developing story ideas and presenting them to reporters;
• Generating media interest for AFT conferences;
• Producing video and audiotapes on issues or AFT campaigns;
• Writing and disseminating press releases, articles, op-eds, letters to the editor, talking points and user-friendly issue summaries;
• Tracking news coverage of issues of interest to the AFT;
• Producing the toll-free Learning Line  for students and the Summer Learning Calendar.

Interns in the public affairs department receive exposure to the varied work performed by our staff and have a hand in much of it.  Intern responsibilities include, but are not limited to: gathering news articles to be included in the Daily Digestt--a compilation of news clips about issues of importance to the AFT; assisting in the public promotion of the AFT’s biennial convention; and writing scripts for the Learning Line, the AFT’s toll-free service providing educational activities for children.

Candidates should have an avid interest in public education and the union’s role in education reform. Strong writing and communication skills are a must; educational or work experience in writing or journalism are preferred.

Application details for internships in this department are found on the main internship page.