Encouraging Radio’s Next Generation
• Given all of the “radio is dying” rhetoric being carelessly tossed around by alarmists looking for clicks, it’s encouraging to read this story about WSDP (88.1 The Park)/Canton, MI, the student-run radio station operated by Plymouth-Canton Community Schools — [Ed. Note: and my wife Sarah‘s introduction to broadcasting back in the day] — announced a $517,000 capital campaign which will more than double the station’s studio space to develop on-air content, record news/programming, and edit news podcasts.
In recognition of its centennial anniversary in 2024, the Rotary Club of Plymouth, through the Plymouth Rotary Foundation, has also established a grant of $200,000 for the capital campaign to cover improvements, including the conversion of a classroom into a series of editing, recording, and interview studios as well as a staff room and storage space.
“This is a transformational, once-in-a-generation opportunity to elevate our studio space to be on par with professional broadcasting environments,” said Bill Keith, Station Manager. “This investment is an opportunity to shape the lives of students, while significantly impacting the quality and quantity of local news/event coverage. We are grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with the Plymouth-Canton Community Schools and the Rotary Club of Plymouth in their support of our capital campaign.”
Dr. Monica Merritt, Superintendent of Schools for Plymouth-Canton Community Schools, commented, “88.1 the Park is one of many educational programs within our district that meet the highest standards and create an environment for our students to learn, prepare, and thrive. These upgrades will solidify the station’s role as a vital communications asset to the school district, aligning with the district’s dynamic plan and learner profile for the future.”
Bill Keith and a team of volunteers and alumni will work closely with the student staff to raise the necessary funds to complete the capital campaign, which includes architecture fees, construction costs, HVAC considerations, sound attenuation measures, enhanced lighting, security considerations, ADA accessibility, video capabilities, and significant equipment purchases and upgrades resulting in four additional studios and a student staff room. Annual fundraising events at 88.1 the Park currently include an auction, the “Thanks for Giving” pledge drive (held in November), a record/CD sale, and a euchre tournament.
WSDP has an alumni network of about 1,000 individuals, some have gone on to successful careers in news, sports, and broadcasting across the country. Others applied their 88.1 the Park skills of organization, time management, writing, and leadership to professions in law, government, advertising, marketing, retail, teaching, and more. Questions? Contact Bill Keith at bill.keith@pccsk12.com.
