As I look back over our last budget year, I am incredibly proud of the work that my staff has done to help educators in our community. One huge accomplishment is the launch of eMediaVA sm4.0. This online repository of tens of thousands of free digital learning resources is correlated and searchable by Virginia Standards of Learning (SOL). The digital team has enhanced eMediaVA.org with a ton of new features. The site now has a responsive new design, an improved search feature, easier content creation, publishing tools, and an informative blog. We've also launched the eMediaVA Ambassador program to support teachers who are using the site. Through the site's blog and a dedicated Facebook group, teachers can share tips and exchange ideas. Read about the launch and all the new developments here.
The WHRO Education team also created the Batten Environmental Van curriculum and learning objects for grades K-5 and started taking it to local schools and community events. Keep an eye out for this van as it makes its rounds through the community!
In addition, staff members partnered with the Virginia Stage Company to produce GreenBeats Live! for elementary-age children. This show has been a real treat to everyone who has seen it. Our educators also established a Student Advisory Board for high school students to provide input on the educational content we create. You can read about these things and more in this issue of WHRO Dimensions.
As you know, WHRO Public Media was founded for the purpose of education. Our station was formed as Virginia's first non-commercial, educational television station that brought televised teaching into our region's classrooms. We are also the only public broadcasting station in the United States that is owned by a collaboration of 21 local public school districts. From creating content that teachers can use in the classroom, to providing professional development courses, our educators play a huge role in serving students and schools throughout the Commonwealth. And it is your generous support that makes it all possible. Thanks for being a member of WHRO!
Bert Schmidt President & Chief Executive Officer