The Palm Beach County School District has implemented a new set of rules and regulations for working media members covering District-sanctioned events. The announcement, shared by New Era Prep on social media, outlines clear expectations for professional conduct, safety, and access.
According to the new policy, all media personnel must display visible credentials at all times while on site. Media are no longer allowed to participate in pregame activities such as the coin toss and must remain on the sidelines. Additionally, coverage zones are now limited—media can only operate between the 20-yard line and the end zone on both sides of the field and are strictly prohibited from entering the players’ box.
The District is also emphasizing professionalism and safety through attire requirements. All media must be properly dressed at all times, including wearing closed-toe shoes.
To protect the integrity of school events and ensure fairness, no media personnel may profit from their work unless they hold a valid contractor’s badge issued by the District. Furthermore, students and their families are prohibited from hiring private photographers for on-field access.
These changes reflect the District’s effort to maintain order, safety, and a consistent standard of professionalism during athletic and other school events. While some may see the rules as restrictive, school officials appear focused on clarifying expectations and preventing unauthorized or commercial activity on school property.
What’s next for Palm Beach County High School Sports?
The verdict is still out on what the credentialing process will be like for Winter/Spring sports, however one can assume that it would be similar process, especially for games in tight, confined spaces- like mens and women’s basketball. Over the years, I’ve seen schools limiting baseline access to certain major outlets, or not permitting anyone to film from under the hoop at all. This stance comes primarily as a liability concern for both the creative and the athlete.
As for spring sports like baseball and softball, most school administrators and coaches have refrained from letting external media enter team dugouts- so honestly, I don’t expect too much of a ripple on this.
My personal stance:
Over the past few hours, numerous local creatives have taken to social media to express their disdain for the new rules. I, alongside the entirety of the NewEraPrep staff, firmly support the actions set in place by the School Board. As someone that is blessed with the opportunity to frequently cover NCAA and Professional sporting events, the rules set in place by the Palm Beach County School District are extremely similar to the guidelines upheld at larger events.
Journalists and Creatives covering college and pro sports are absolutely NOT allowed in any team areas including the team box, bench or locker room. Secondarily, creatives covering NCAA and professional sports are absolutely NOT allowed to sell content to the athletes, their families or the agency that represents them.
By placing these rules into an immediate effect, the School Board sets the scene for both our student athletes and student creatives to see what being at the next level looks like.
