There’s a good chance this could go viral.
After recognizing a trend in video consumption, leaders at Little Falls Community Schools implemented a program that produced over 250 newscasts and 100 events in the last year.
Students, faculty, parents and community members now enjoy high-quality, well-produced events and news from the entire school district.
This innovation, collaboration and widespread adoption earned the Little Falls Community Schools the 2016 MREA Profile of Excellence Exemplary Award.
In response to the desire students voiced for video as a way to capture moments, share their experiences, learn new ideas and disseminate information, Little Falls school leaders developed Flyer Media Productions. Students provide video coverage of award ceremonies, performing arts events and athletic events.
“The students get a highly impactful hands-on learning experience and ability to develop marketable career skills and the community gets to a front seat to see the what’s happening in the local school,” MREA Executive Director Fred Nolan said. “It’s a win-win.”
The equipment is all high-definition, giving students a unique opportunity for high-quality broadcast, not often available in school districts as small as Little Falls.
Students also have access to a high-definition mobile production trailer, sponsored by the Flyer Athletic Boosters, allowing them to broadcast events remotely from other schools.
Flyer Media Production incorporates all three elementary schools, the middle school and the high school, providing a wide range of events, new and information throughout the school district.
The community has been extremely supportive of the Flyer Media Production program by broadcasting the channel on their televisions at their establishment.
“The community has demonstrated tremendous interest, support and collaboration in the program,” Nolan said.
Video professionals in the community volunteer their time to mentor the students and provide them with practical skills used in broadcast and video.
Five local establishments help broaden the reach of the broadcasts by airing all of the local athletic events on televisions within their respective businesses.
“Students are getting an experience with the Flyer Media Productions program that helps them grow in areas not offered by traditional co-curricular programs within the district; the benefits of the program are community-wide,” Nolan said.
