What to learn to be a community journalist? Train with the New York Press Association

Ever read a story and thought, “I can do that!” Or missed coverage in your local paper simply because the newsroom didn’t have enough resources?

Now could be your chance to do something about it. And the New York Press Association — the statewide organization representing news outlets like the very newspaper you’re reading — is offering training to neighbors just like you interested in covering news for the local newspaper.

The free four-part online program focuses on ethics, accuracy in reporting, interviewing techniques, and how to write clearly. Everyone who completes all four sessions and pass a written test will receive certification as a community journalist from the association.

“We’re not aiming to replace traditional journalists with this program,” said Judy Patrick, the association’s vice president for editorial development, in a news release. “We’re working to expand local news coverage and build on our industry’s longstanding tradition of community correspondents.”

The one-hour sessions include an introduction to journalism that will explain the First Amendment and the business of newspapers. The differences between news and opinion and news and advertising. And discussing news literacy and ethics.

The second session focuses on basic news writing, the “inverted pyramid” method of writing, and how to write a lede. There also will be discussion on checking facts, how to avoid libel, and the difference between “off-the-record” and “on background,” as well as how to follow recommended writing styles, story accuracy, and writing clearly.

On the job in the third session, participants can explore how to comport themselves on the job, how to find news and interview story subjects and sources, the variety of stories — from hard news to features — how to find and develop sources, and why deadlines matter.

The basics of local government across the state will be covered in the last session, along with how to write about governmental financial budgets, education and politics, learning about basic investigative tools, open government tools in New York, and social media.

Offered four times a year, the first online session is set to run between July 10 and July 13 beginning at 4 p.m.

Free registration is open through July 7 by emailing Judy Patrick at judy@nynewspapers.com.