Beyond the Bottom : PressPass NYC — Journalism, Equity, and Giving Students a Voice
On this episode of Beyond the Bottom Line, Sean Littman sits down with Lara Bergen and Beth Fertig of PressPass NYC to explore how access to student journalism shapes opportunity — and who gets left out.
PressPass NYC was founded to address a gap that often goes unnoticed: many high-poverty, unscreened schools in New York City simply don’t have student newspapers or journalism programs. What’s often taken for granted in more resourced schools becomes an equity issue when students don’t have access to platforms that build voice, confidence, and critical thinking.
The organization works directly with schools and teachers to lower the barrier to entry, helping launch and sustain student-led news programs that reflect the realities of their communities.
Why access to student journalism is an equity issue And how opportunities differ dramatically between schools in the same city.
Lowering the barrier for schools to start news programs Supporting teachers who may not have journalism backgrounds to guide student teams.
What a “student newspaper” looks like today Moving beyond print to include digital, video, and social-first storytelling.
Building sustainable programs, not one-time initiatives Focusing on long-term continuity through teacher fellowships and school partnerships.
The challenge of funding work that doesn’t fit clean categories Navigating support between education, media, and civic engagement spaces.
About PressPass NYC
PressPass NYC is a New York City–based nonprofit dedicated to expanding access to student journalism in underserved schools. Founded in 2021, the organization partners primarily with Title I public schools to help launch and strengthen student-led news teams across multiple formats, including print, digital, video, and audio.
Through teacher fellowships, student training, and ongoing support, PressPass NYC works to ensure that young people develop skills in accurate, fact-based reporting, communication, and civic engagement. By focusing on sustainability and access, the organization aims to create lasting journalism programs that give students a voice in their schools and communities.
