Students at MWHS, like Ally Soderlund and Amanda Thielman above, are gaining some real-world experience in the field of Web broadcasting by taking part in the Webheads program which lets participants film and provide commentary for a variety of school sports and other activities. (Submitted photo)

In an effort to bring more real world opportunities to her students, Kristin Wallace, a fine arts teacher at Mound Westonka High School, partnered this fall with Webcast America to launch a new program at the high school—Westonka Webheads.

Webcast America, an internet broadcasting company contracted by the Wright County Conference (WCC) for the 2008-09 school year to transmit live streaming video of high school events. The company provides training and equipment and pays students to broadcast events throughout the year. The students film high school activities, do play-by-play sports commentary and broadcast live on the internet. Funded by advertising revenue, the broadcasts are free to the public.

Wallace’s vision goes beyond learning the technology side of broadcasting, she said. “When you put students in control of content, you encourage them to become more analytical about what they consume. We want to show them they can be creators of content instead of just consumers.”

The Webheads got their initial training from Webcast America founder, Brent Stromme. Throughout September, Wallace and Stromme worked with students to refine their camera work and hone their broadcasting skills. “This group appeals to a wide variety of students,” said Wallace, “some love sports, others are interested in film production and another group wants to explore broadcast journalism.”

Wallace’s Webheads are contracted to broadcast a minimum of nine events in the fall, 20 more activities in the winter, and another nine events in the spring, each selected by WCC officials. Participating Webhead students may opt to take part in one, two or all three seasons. They may also choose which events they wish to cover. Wallace is also committed to trying to provide coverage of at least on event for every sport. Subsequent training sessions will be made available throughout the year as new students choose to participate.

To date, students have filmed volleyball, football, and soccer games as well as swimming and cross country meets. The first non-sports event filmed was Homecoming Coronation. Events are archived on the Webcast America site and can be viewed by players, coaches and fans at any time at the Web site: www.webcast50.com.

“I knew this would be a great opportunity for students, but I never imagined how it could connect family, friends, and alumni to the Westonka community,” said Wallace.

The upcoming winter broadcast schedule should be posted on the MWHS Web site under “webcasts” by Nov. 1.