Students produce 'Panther Report'; teachers seek modest equipment grant for teleprompter

Teachers presented a sampling of the student‑produced Panther Report and described the media literacy studio as a cross‑curricular project that pairs production and English instruction. The board saw a short episode and student commentaries that emphasized teamwork, on‑air confidence and practical production skills.

Rick Holland, who teaches studio productions, and Patricia Swain, who handles the English curriculum tie‑ins, called the program dual‑accredited and said students take responsibility for story selection, research and editing. Holland said the class uses storyboards, roundtable reflections, and an op‑ed assignment to justify honors credit; students complete reflections after each broadcast.

Sophomore Scarlett Rogers, who anchors and appears in student segments, said the course “helps students overcome their fears of sitting in front of an audience.” Several other students added that the class teaches collaboration, technical skills and the value of authentic audiences.

Teachers noted technical obstacles. Staff described a cumbersome workflow that moves large video files across cameras, phones, Chromebooks and different editing platforms; one teacher said grant money could buy a $300–$400 teleprompter to strengthen student presentations and multi‑camera setups. Presenters asked the committee for help identifying infrastructure grants and platform consolidation options so student teams can complete monthly episodes on schedule.

No formal funding decision was made at the meeting; staff said they would pursue small grants and report back on infrastructure needs and potential costs.