Grant supports local student-run news outlet

If you tune to Educational Access Channel 22 in Brunswick, you can enjoy the work of the BEAT Video Program first hand. Students (grades 6-12) working in small groups write, edit, produce, manage and deliver most of the channel 22 content. Each group is responsible for six print and video stories each school year. These programs spotlight activities or events throughout Medina County. They also take on special projects to the benefit of the community.

A few years ago, I was fortunate to work with the BEAT team on a feature video for a Medina County non-profit. By reputation I knew that BEAT was a special opportunity to learn "backpack" journalism and video production. What I wasn't prepared for was the skill and professionalism (yes, professionalism!) displayed by these middle-school and high-school students. The quality of the work was outstanding!

The BEAT is totally self-funded, they receive no operating or maintenance dollars from the Brunswick City School District or cable franchise fees from the City of Brunswick. They rely on grants and sponsorships for all the programs needs. The Medina County Community Fund is proud to provide a grant of $1,000 to the Brunswick Educational Foundation in support of the BEAT Video Program.

For more information on this award-winning, student-driven program you can contact John Wasylko, the BEAT program advisor at jwasylko@bcsoh.org. Or, visit their website at www.thebeat22.com.

By Terry Pfleiderer
MCCF Advisory Board Member