Students enhance sports broadcasts with new Daktronics gym video board technology

The USD 345 Board Meeting held on April 15, 2025, focused on the integration and utilization of a new video board in the gymnasium, highlighting the learning experiences of students involved in sports broadcasting. The meeting began with a brief acknowledgment of the challenges faced during the initial implementation of the video board, which included a steep learning curve for both students and staff.

The discussion was led by a teacher who outlined the process of familiarizing students with the Daktronics equipment. Initially, the team had limited knowledge of the software and hardware, requiring guidance from a Daktronics representative. The teacher emphasized the collaborative effort among students, particularly mentioning a group that included a student named Brecken, who played a significant role in learning the system and assisting peers.

As the basketball season approached, the focus shifted to creating engaging content, such as hype videos. The students researched professional and high school examples to develop their own style. They coordinated with basketball coaches to schedule filming sessions, capturing dynamic clips of players in action. Brecken noted that while the initial attempts were challenging, the experience was invaluable, and they acquired new equipment that would enhance future productions.

Another student, Connor, shared insights from his experience during game days. He described his role in operating the video board, which involved clicking graphics in response to game events. Connor expressed the enjoyment of being part of the school community and contributing to the atmosphere during games.

Overall, the meeting underscored the educational benefits of hands-on experience with technology in a real-world setting. The students' involvement not only improved their technical skills but also fostered a sense of community and school spirit. The board concluded with a positive outlook on continuing to develop the program and enhance the student experience in the upcoming year.