Media protocols at special events       Determine extent of media access. Will all media, no media or a media pool (select media who will relay information to other journalists reporting the story) be allowed to cover a specific event, such as the first day back at school? A media pool might consist of one still photographer and print reporter, one videographer and reporter, and one radio reporter. A member of the communications staff or other staff member should escort each media representative to the designated press area. Determine policies on coverage. Set parameters for media, including designated area, what can and cannot be photographed, and when they arrive and leave the site. If the event or the venue is public, the media cannot be prohibited from attending. However, you can ask the media to stay in a designated area and respect the privacy of individuals. Establish an area where press conferences and prearranged one-on-one interviews take place. Determine whether media will be allowed access to the school grounds or school building. Credential reporters. Get names in advance of the event and provide badges. Set up a check-in system and have credentialed media escorted to the designated area. Host a media summit. Invite reporters and editors to meet with communications staff and district officials to talk about ground rules for covering special events. Invite a mental health professional to provide information about the media’s potential impact on retraumatization.