Whether it be producing District content, posting on social media, administrating the website, or writing for publications, the Media Center at Byram Hills is strategizing how information is being communicated internally and to the community. “We like to think of ourselves as the communications hub,“ said Elise Trainor, District Communications & Production Specialist. “We feel we are creating a window into the schools so the community can share the compelling and inspiring achievements of our students.”
Dr. Jen Lamia, Byram Hills Superintendent, spearheaded the concept of integrating all communications and developing an internal Media Center. The mission is to showcase student accomplishments, District initiatives, and events through digital and social media, web content, and print publications. The District is committed to educating students, engaging volunteers, creating interpersonal communication, and sharing information with the Byram Hills community.
In addition to bTV programming and social media, the Media Center publishes Spectrum, the District’s newsletter, and the bi-monthly BHHS digital newsletter, The Focus. The designs and user experience were updated, which provide a more interactive and aesthetic read.
bTV has an active video presence as the production arm of the Media Center. The Department hired Ms. Gabriella Medrano, Media Associate, who assists in all aspects of production and is a tremendous asset to the team. Besides producing student award ceremonies and curricular programming, the Media Center also helps the schools with more significant communication projects, such as the virtual Back-to-School Nights at BHHS/HCC and remodeling department sites.
The Media Center also offers two extracurricular clubs for students, run by Brian Melso, District Communications Strategist. “When we officially changed from Bobcat TV to the Media Center, the HCC and BHHS clubs also changed,” Mr. Melso said. “Instead of focusing on video production, we now include digital marketing and media as they are common practices in the industry. Website design, photography, videotaping and distribution, social media, and cross-platform digital marketing all go hand-in-hand.”
During the first year of operation, the Media Center faced a unique set of challenges that resulted in producing all spring events virtually during the pandemic. “At the start of remote learning in March, I came up with a technical plan to hold virtual Board of Education Meetings,” said Mr. Melso. The plan allowed all Board members to be present and for community members to ask questions. “Working with administration and staff, we produced and live-streamed most calendared events, and made sure families had the closest representation of live in-house ceremonies. All had outstanding viewership.” The Media Center had over 200,000 cross-platform views, 175% growth from the previous year, and helped distribute over 250 videos during the pandemic.
“The feedback has been extremely positive and gratifying from the administration, our colleagues, and community members,” said Ms. Trainor. “The Media Center’s goal is to enhance communication by effectively reaching our community, and while our first year has been unpredictable, we are delighted about the beneficial impact we are making in the Byram Hills School District.”