Stratford Elementary’s 5th-grade students are taking on the role of news anchors, producers, and editors through the exciting Stratford Starcast Classroom Grant awarded Fall 2024. Guided by Library Media Specialist Erika Henke, these budding broadcasters are recording and producing the school’s Friday announcements, gaining invaluable skills along the way.
Each week, the students collaborate to share key updates, including the First Chapter Friday book, Star Sign winners, Star Ticket drawings, lunch menus, and birthdays. By the end of the year, they’ll even take charge of filming, editing, and producing their broadcasts independently, with 4th-grade “interns” joining in the final quarter to learn the ropes.
“This is a fantastic way to help 5th-grade students build 21st Century skills and prepare for future challenges—maybe even spark career aspirations they wouldn’t have considered before,” said Henke.
Impact Highlights:
- Development of broadcasting, life, and career skills
- Mastery of 21st Century skills like creativity, problem-solving, communication, and collaboration
- Leadership opportunities as older students inspire younger classmates
- Engagement of 60-80 students annually, building a lasting tradition
The grant funded essential tools, including an iPad stand, microphones, apps, and an iPad case, while partnering with District Technology Department to utilize an already existing ipad.
Reflecting on the project’s success, Henke shared, “We recorded our first episode for Friday’s announcements, and the students did an amazing job working as a team and figuring things out quickly. Thank you for the opportunity to bring this to Stratford!”
With their enthusiasm and growing expertise, Stratford’s 5th graders might just be tomorrow’s news anchors and broadcast producers!
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