Connections

Preparing the next generation

The Delaware Valley is undoubtedly one of the world's greatest centers of learning.

Not only does the region have some of the most prestigious academic institutions, but it is also home to a host of talented and dedicated educators, who, day by day, are positively shaping the future of our region's young people.

Dr. Arlene Holtz, principal of the Woodrow Wilson Middle School in Northeast Philadelphia, is a shining example of someone who is truly working to make a difference in the lives of her students.

I have been fortunate to take part in Wilson's "Principal for a Day" program for the past two years and have witnessed first hand Dr. Holtz's exceptional leadership. The challenges of educating today's children are as evident at Wilson as they are anywhere else, yet Dr. Holtz is the kind of extraordinary leader who makes it possible for the people around her to envision an even better future.

Her clearly articulated vision of what is possible, and her openness to innovative methods of education, inspired WHYY to "adopt" Wilson during a special ceremony in January. As part of this unique new partnership, we will share our technology resources with almost 100 sixth, seventh and eighth graders from the school's Polaris Small Learning Community.

Each month, these students will get an up-close look at WHYY's broadcast and production operations at our facilities in Philadelphia and Wilmington. Members of WHYY's production team will show them the ropes: explaining the many facets of multimedia production; providing hands-on instruction using computers and broadcast equipment; and introducing them to the diverse careers available in the communications field.

Through our partnership with Wilson, we will give the students access to technology that is not available to them at school. By becoming familiar with a variety of technologies when they are young, these children will be better prepared for the demands of higher education. They will acquire the strong computer and communications skills needed to succeed in school and to move into careers in an ever-changing business environment.

Moreover, this early exposure to technology will have an immediate impact as the students use the new production, graphic arts and Web design skills they are learning to improve the production of their in-house Wilson News Show and to continue developing their school newsletter.

In the face of all forms of educational reform ideas that are being debated in school systems throughout the Delaware Valley, Dr. Holtz's vision for the future remains strong. Although she is mindful of the ongoing challenges, I believe it is her superb leadership abilities that have enabled her to reallocate the resources necessary to ensure that Wilson's students receive a solid education.

Over the years, you, our Members, have shown tremendous support for the great programming on television and radio that WHYY provides, especially our daily lineup of award-winning shows for the young people in your lives. Yet our mission for this great community extends far beyond the desire to bring our region quality on-air programming. We are always searching for new ways to invest in the lives of everyone in the Delaware Valley.

Our adoption of the Wilson Middle School is only a first step in our efforts to continue to build off-air relationships with various organizations that share our mission of lifelong learning. The world is becoming increasingly more dependent on technology, and these partnerships will guide us as we combine our traditional broadcasting resources with new technological capabilities to give everyone a chance to learn.

Warm regards,
William J. Marrazzo
President and Chief Executive Officer