By Allison Peck
The Schmidt Foundation is investing in the future of North Platte students with a $20,000 donation to the North Platte Public Schools Foundation.
The gift will support the expansion of the Bulldog Productions Creative Lab at North Platte High School, giving students more opportunities to learn broadcasting, podcasting, photography, video production, journalism and digital media.
The project is designed to expand beyond the school's existing B Studio, creating an additional space where students can explore creative and media-related skills.
Terri Burchell, executive director of the North Platte Public Schools Foundation, said the project will provide students with hands-on learning opportunities that can extend beyond the classroom.
“This generous support from the Schmidt Foundation and Eagle Radio is an investment in what our students can become,” Burchell said. “The updated Bulldog Productions Creative Lab will give students a place to explore their creativity while gaining hands-on experience in broadcasting, podcasting, video production, digital media and storytelling.”
The project is expected to cost more than $100,000 and will be completed in phases. The school is currently in the design phase, with the first phase estimated to need an additional $40,000 in funding.
Burchell said the expansion will allow more teachers and students to utilize the space, including those involved in journalism, yearbook, business and photography.
“These are skills that extend far beyond the classroom and can open doors to future education and career opportunities,” Burchell said.
“We are especially grateful for Eagle Radio’s belief in the power of student voices,” Burchell said. “When community partners invest their time, talent and treasure in our schools, they help create opportunities that students may not otherwise have.”
The Schmidt Foundation's $20,000 contribution will help move the creative lab expansion forward as North Platte Public Schools works toward its larger vision for the project.
“This amazing donation is only the start,” Burchell said. “The full project is estimated at over $100,000. We will need to do this in phases.”
More information about the Bulldog Productions Creative Lab and the expansion plans will be announced as the project moves forward.