“Inside the District” Kicks off the New Year with a New Episode on Region 15 TV WTCH, Channels 16 & 17

“Inside the District”, Region 15’s student and staff produced television show, kicks off the New Year with a new episode that airs on Region 15 TV WTCH, Channels 16 (Middlebury) and 17 (Southbury) every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 6:00 a.m., 10:00 a.m., 3:00 p.m. and 6 p.m., on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 11:00 a.m., 4:00 p.m., 8:00 p.m. and 11:00 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays at 6:00 a.m., 7:00 a.m., 8:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m.

Directed by Charlie Vlahos, Pomperaug High School, Technology and Video Teacher, “Inside the District” showcases student and staff achievements throughout Region 15, while providing students with an opportunity to learn about video production, editing, lighting, and set design. 

The latest episode of the show spotlights the Region’s new Kindergarten through 8^th grade Science curriculum and features footage of students in the classroom engaged in hands on Science activities.  Rochambeau Middle School, Science Teacher, Liz Mierzejewski and Gainfield Elementary School (GES) third grade teacher, Kerri Grieder discuss what students are learning. 

Show host, Anna Teardo visits with Superintendent of Schools, Frank Sippy in his office, to discuss the District’s world languages program.  Dr. Sippy shares personal photos and anecdotes about his own international travels as they discuss the future needs of the program.

Music Instructor, Donald West provides an overview of Region 15’s instrumental music program which is introduced to students in fifth grade.  Mr. West is joined by GES 5^th grade students, Kennedy G. and Louis P. who provide a musical interlude. 

Members of the Region 15 Wellness Committee discuss their work to improve and enhance student wellness by promoting a healthy school environment.  The segment features interviews with Committee Chairman and Region 15, Director of Finance and Operations, Keith McLiverty along with committee member, Joanne Duncanson, a GES parent and registered physical therapist.

Each episode of “Inside the District” is co-hosted by a different Region 15 student. This month, Pomperaug High School (PHS) senior, Libby K. fills the co-host seat. Together, Libby and Mrs. Teardo also showcase student artwork, recent student award winners and Project Panther, a fundraiser to improve upon the Edward Arum Athletic Field at PHS.

Inside the district was developed and co-produced by Memorial Middle School math and history teacher, LeAnn Cassidy and Region 15’s School/Home/Community Liaison, Karen Kirk.  Production of the show is a community project shared by students, parents and members of the Region 15 staff.