Stoney Creek students present 'News from the Nest' student newscast; board recognizes North Montco inductees

Stoney Creek Elementary fifth graders demonstrated a student-produced newscast called "News from the Nest" at the Wissahickon School District board meeting on Feb. 3, showing how students write, record and edit the program that now airs every other Friday.

The newscast, introduced by Principal Debbie Washington, highlights school events, student achievements and PBIS recognitions and includes recurring segments such as the Friday Funnies, birthdays and social-emotional learning themes. Washington said the program gives fifth graders leadership opportunities and that staff members support production: "Missus Sadowski has been instrumental in getting the kids together, excited, reviewing everything with them, and just empowering them to really lead this," she said.

Students described the production process: they draft scripts, volunteer time during school resets to record, and take turns editing using Canva and other tools. One student, Lewis, said of his goal: "I want to earn lots of stars this month." The newscast closes with a shared sign-off line used by the students: "And remember, don't just fly, soar."

Board members and parents in the meeting praised the program for building school community and giving students practical media and leadership experience. A parent in the room called the newscast "amazing" and said it was clearly popular with students in the hallways.

The board also recognized three students from the North Montco Technical Career Center who were inducted into the center's honor society: Evelyn Contreras (protective services), Lindsay Craig (advertising design) and Suzanne McNaughton (advertising design). Presenters described each student's program participation and postsecondary plans.

The presentations concluded with a brief photo opportunity and the meeting moved on to the evening's consent and action items.