Student media program recognized for state awards at South Madison board meeting

Mr. Wagner presented the board with highlights from the Indiana Association of School Broadcasters state competition and recognized students and staff involved in the school’s student-run media program. He told the board the program submitted more than 20 entries across categories judged by industry professionals and noted that the school has earned multiple state-level placements in recent years.

"Every year, the IASB comes together in the spring," Mr. Wagner said, explaining the scope of the contest and the range of categories. He walked trustees through the "sound design" category, where students are given a video clip and must produce all audio elements, and played a brief student-produced audio excerpt to illustrate the work.

Mr. Wagner singled out several student accomplishments: Zion placed second in a radio play-by-play category and will attend Ball State’s Sports Link program; Vincent Davis placed third in radio drama; Mackenzie Wandell and Sarai Allen earned honorable mentions in radio imaging; and Brooklyn Skyler was credited for leading the social media team that helped the school capture state social-media titles in recent years. Mr. Wagner noted that underwriting covers competition costs so students are not charged.

"That's better than any state championship in my book," Mr. Wagner said of the students' media accomplishments, praising their preparation and teamwork. He also introduced a talk-show snippet featuring Brooklyn, Zion, Reagan and Sophia to show the program's on-air chemistry.

The presentation emphasized that the media program is largely student run, supported by local underwriting and corporate sponsors, and provides real-world production experience. The board and attendees applauded the students at the conclusion of the presentation.

No formal votes were required for the presentation; it was presented as information and recognition during the meeting.