The Content Generation Class Intercom

In this episode, we hear from Caden Block, a senior student athlete at Hastings High School and the winner of the 2023 Content Generation Award. Beyond breaking sports records, Caden discusses his journey into content creation, talking through the experience of creating social media content and telling stories through social channels. Inspired by the Mentoring Works program, Caden recognized the power of storytelling and used it as a driving force in his award-winning video, centered around an important theme: making an impact. Leading up to this endeavor, his passion for sports reached new heights through media classes, content creation, and the willingness to dig deeper when it comes to capturing the essence of the game. Caden’s commitment to immersive storytelling has left a mark on his school and community, in addition to influencing his own life and career aspirations. He is an incredible example of the inspiration and passion that lies within every student, waiting to be empowered with opportunity.

In this episode, hear from Nicole Eimer, digital communications specialist for Valley View Public Schools. Located in a suburb of Chicago, VVSD, proudly serves a diverse community of about 15,000 students and 21 educational facilities. During a recent revamp of the district's strategic plan, focus shifted to building a heightened sense of belonging among students, families, and staff. In response to this initiative, Eimer worked with schools to determine the best way to connect with students and families. Now, with a digital content creator at each school, VVSD social media accounts have blossomed. From compelling campaigns like “Friday Favorites”, to showcasing their reading facility dogs, engagement has skyrocketed with student stories at the forefront. But, with a range of social media experience, from teachers to front office secretaries, how does Eimer ensure her team is creating quality content? And what has their experience been getting students involved in this initiative? The results are a testament to the power social media can have when people see themselves represented in the stories being told.

This episode of the Content Generation Podcast features  Kyleigh Kumm, a computer science and technology integration teacher at Harlan Community High School in Harlan, Iowa. In response to the need to get social media channels running for the district and buildings, Kumm proposed recruiting student content creators to help. 
Now, these talented and experienced content creators are chasing after a new goal: Kumm is developing an authentic learning class aimed at building student resumes and portfolios. After a successful rollout of the first iteration of the class, local businesses are getting involved, creating a unique opportunity for student content creators to gain real world experience not only with school social media content, but with content for actual local businesses. Her innovative, hands-on approach to working with students to learn, explore, and apply a range of skills has even led to the first ever live student social media contest at the Nebraska Education Technology Association spring conference. 
Catch this episode for especially innovative insights on student involvement, championing student voice, real world learning, authentic assessment in practice, and more. 
 

Join us for a conversation with Chad Stevens, Chief Strategy and Marketing Officer at ParentSquare, the leading provider of innovative family and community engagement solutions for K-12 education. With a rich 28-year background that spans both public and private sectors in education and technology, Stevens shares his insights into the interplay between teaching and tech. 
This conversation explores the evolving world of digital education, shining a light on the crucial role of effective school public relations, the art of genuine storytelling, and the strategic use of technology to enhance the educational journey for students and families alike.  
You’ll also learn how ParentSquare is leading a communication revolution, directly impacting 17 million families nationwide. Stevens opens up about the company’s latest strategic partnerships and acquisitions, highlighting how these developments are reinforcing the company’s commitment to fostering a culture of innovation and positive impact. 

The Content Generation Podcast is back and better than ever! From storytelling and advocacy to representation, digital formats, and new channels, content is everywhere. This season, we’re leaning into collaboration, tapping innovative change-makers from a variety of disciplines to share their unique perspectives on all things content.
The Content Generation is a movement powered by passionate people and powerful technology on a mission to make social media a force for good. The community behind this movement includes students, educators, community leaders, innovators, builders, and doers of all types. The Content Generation Podcast is an important avenue for sharing their stories and empowering others to join the conversation. Welcome to season two!

Sharing the story of her unique career trajectory, NSPRA President and seasoned school communications leader Cathy Kedjidjian talks about the state of school communications and the school PR community, plus how she approaches serving her peers, team, and community. This includes considerations like accessibility and breaking down barriers, but also collaborating with others in a way that impacts people, lives, and relationships. With an eye toward storytelling, connection and balance, Cathy talks about the importance of mental and physical health and wellness, navigating political landscapes, building meaningful relationships, and connecting diverse communities in this episode of the Content Generation Podcast.