Step into a classroom while students are reading the newspaper, and you see all kinds of positive interaction. So the assumption that these young people would grow up to read the newspaper might be a natural one to make. That assumption has now been proven.

A just-completed study concludes that structured, well-designed NIE programs create loyal newspaper readers. Period. The key, according to the study, is for newspapers to make the commitment to create effective programs that students will remember.

The study was conducted for the Newspaper Association of America Foundation by Clark, Martire & Bartolomeo, Inc., an independent research group not connected to the newspaper industry.

One of the most significant findings is that 62 percent of young adults ages 18-34 who had newspapers distributed as part of the curriculum while they were in school now read a weekday newspaper. Of those who say they had no exposure to newspapers in school, only 38 percent say they are regular newspaper readers.

It is also surprising to discover that a majority of 18–34-year-olds began reading newspapers at age 13. That is approximately sixth grade and indicates that media usage decisions are being made much earlier than many media experts have projected. A focus on middle school appears to be critical for developing readers beyond the current generation.

The NAA Foundation has developed the NIE Tool Kit to help local newspapers conduct a self-evaluation of their NIE program that uses national benchmarks. The Tool Kit shows the type of program that is proving successful and indicates how close your NIE department is to meeting those benchmarks. It is research-based and available on the NAA Web site at no cost. Download the Tool Kit at www.naa.org/artpage.cfm?AID=6474&SID=87

Here at MPA, the Michigan Newspapers in Education Committee has developed a many resources for Michigan newspapers. To find out what's available and how to join NIE, click HERE.