In March, our high school journalism students partnered with Montana Media Lab to produce an audio documentary focused on changing lake levels. Students selected this topic themselves, motivated by a desire to demystify “lake level” conversations for a teen audience.
Throughout the process, students conducted in-depth research on the science behind lake levels and engaged with a range of community experts. They interviewed the dam operator at SKQ Dam in Polson, spoke with community members, and visited the Chamber of Commerce to meet with the executive director. Students also connected with local business owners whose livelihoods depend on the lake, including Base Camp Bigfork and The Sitting Duck.
This experience provided students with valuable, real-world journalism skills, including professional communication, interviewing techniques, and the use of new audio equipment. It was an authentic opportunity for them to practice journalism beyond the classroom.
Students are currently finalizing edits, and the completed piece will be submitted to Montana Public Radio. We are hopeful the story will be selected for broadcast; regardless, we encourage you to keep an eye on our social media channels for its release.
A special thank you to Montana Media Lab for their time, expertise, and generous donation of new audio equipment to support our journalism program.