NewsOne August 2026 Extras Advisory

NewsOne AUGUST 2026  

EXTRAS ADVISORY 

Attention Stations:   

NewsOne is pleased to share the stories and coverage planned for August. Several pieces are timed to coincide with key observances, but you’re welcome to air them whenever they best fit your schedule once they’ve been delivered. Unless otherwise noted, all stories will be available starting at 4:00 a.m. on the listed dates. If any delivery dates change, we’ll share updates promptly.

BACK TO SCHOOL WEEK

During the first week of August, we will offer a series of back-to-school stories to help your viewers prepare for the school year ahead. Since school start dates vary by market, affiliates can use each story at any time after it is released.

MONDAY, August 3:

Sleep Reset

Summer schedules are ending, and doctors say many kids are returning to school sleep deprived. The alarm clock may be the toughest part of going back to school. How parents can reset sleep before exhaustion shows up in the classroom.

TUESDAY, August 4:

The "Back-to-School Plague" of Anxiety

Health experts note that transitioning from laid-back summer schedules to strict academic routines often causes debilitating stress. Children and teens may exhibit anxiety through somatic symptoms like stomachaches, headaches, or sleep disturbances.

WEDNESDAY, August 5:

The Rising Cost of College Move-In Day

For millions of families, move-in weekend comes with a hefty price tag. Beyond tuition, students are spending thousands on dorm essentials, technology, meal plans, and transportation. NewsOne looks at the growing cost of starting college and offers practical ways families are cutting expenses.

THURSDAY, August 6:

The Backpack Burden

With so many schools doing away with lockers and because of security. Students find themselves carrying all their belongings in their backpacks. Pediatricians warn that a child’s backpack should never exceed fifteen percent of their body weight. Heavy, overstuffed bags put severe strain on the neck, shoulders, and back.

FRIDAY, August 7:

AI in The Classroom

Students are using AI for homework. Teachers are using it for lesson planning and grading. Is there an ethical way AI can be used to enhance the teaching and learning experience rather than as a means of circumventing the hard work?

TUESDAY, August 11:

Credit Card Debt Reaches New High

As Americans continue to grapple with high prices and elevated interest rates, credit card balances are reaching record levels. NewsOne will examine what’s driving the increase, how families are managing mounting debt, and what financial experts recommend avoiding falling further behind. The story will also look at the long-term impact of carrying high-interest balances.

FRIDAY, August 14:

The Push to End Daylight Saving Time

As the countdown begins to the end of Daylight-Saving Time later this year, renewed efforts are underway to make one clock permanent. NewsOne will explore where legislation stands, why the debate continues, and how changing the clocks can affect health.

WEDNESDAY, August 19:

AI Companions Are Replacing Human Relationships

Millions of people are turning to AI companions for friendship, therapy, and even romance. One man even proposed to his AI partner, saying the relationship felt real.

According to Sensor Tower, Americans spend 600M–700M hours a quarter on AI companion apps, more than twice the time spent on dating apps. While dating app usage has declined since early 2025, platforms like Character.AI, Talkie, and Polybuzz continue to see strong engagement.

FRIDAY, August 21:

Freedom 250 Grand Prix (VOSOT)

**NOTE: This piece will be distributed later in the day**

Believe it or not, it’s time to start thinking about Back-to-School shopping. No matter your kids’ age or how well they care for their gear, they always need more for the coming school year. We'll have money-saving tips for parents.

TUESDAY, August 25:

Women’s Equality Day — The Fight for Equality Continues (VOSOT)

Women’s Equality Day marks the certification of the 19th Amendment, granting many women the right to vote. More than a century later, NewsOne examines the progress made, the challenges that remain, and the women leading change in business, politics, science, and their communities.

WEDNESDAY, August 26:

Do Animals Perceive Music?

A musician and animal rights advocate serenades recued animals all over the world and the animals respond in unique ways. I'd love to make the piece all about him and his firsthand experience, but research has been done on how animals perceive music so can be a more comprehensive segment

FRIDAY, August 28:

Hurricane Katrina — 21 Years Later (VOSOT)

**NOTE: The anniversary is the 29th**

Twenty-one years after Hurricane Katrina devastated the Gulf Coast, NewsOne reflects on one of the deadliest natural disasters in U.S. history. The story looks at how communities have rebuilt, the lasting impact on survivors, and the lessons emergency officials say continue to shape hurricane preparedness today.

If you have any questions, please contact Mara Bush at mara.a.bush@abc.com or Nicole Block at nicole.block@abc.com