“The arts are a universal language, one that bridges cultures and articulates the highest aspirations of humankind.”- Stephanie Perrin, Walnut Hill School, MA

Education Week, January 30, 2008

America's creative industries are our nation's leading export worth over 60 billion annually in overseas sales including the output of artists and other creative workers in publishing, audio visual, music and recording and entertainment businesses
Source: NASAA Advocate

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Updated: 6/30/08

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Home > Arts Education Month> placing an op-ed

Placing an Op-Ed: What Editors Want

Op-ed stands for “opposite the editorial page”, although their precise location in a given outlet may differ. They are not written by the newspapers’ staff but solicited and/or accepted from outside audiences. Op-eds are a great way to voice your thoughts and ideas to the thinking, talking public. Op-eds generally consist of about 650 words and present an opinion on a current issue. They occupy some of the most valuable “real estate” in a newspaper and reach influential audiences. For this reason, it is difficult to secure placement for op-eds. Here are some tips to help you succeed.

Pay attention to current events and look for an angle that is provocative and new. Most editors see this as a section for sharp opinion, advocacy, denunciations, controversy and surprise. In general, keep these four points in mind to increase the chances of your op-ed running. You can use the mnemonic device “RANT” to remember Relevance, Author, Notable Idea and Timeliness:

1. Relevance: Relevance to ongoing events is key. If properly crafted your op-ed can achieve this goal.

2. Author: Having the article signed by a local or national expert, community college president, respected business leader, a member of the clergy, or a well-known politician could enhance its prospects of being printed.

3. Notable Idea: Editors are looking for—

• A provocative idea on any subject
• An opinion on a current issue that is controversial, unexpected, authoritative, or newsworthy
• A rallying call on a neglected subject
• A humorous angle on a current issue

4. Timeliness: Timeliness is an important consideration. Even if your op-ed does not break new ground, you may be able to find a news hook: legislative agenda, research results, an anniversary, an election, an upcoming conference, a report, a vote in Congress, or pending action by local or state government.

Click here for more tips on op-ed writing

Click here to read a recent op-ed on arts education

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