Amplifying Tomorrow's Voices

Through our Summit Next program, The Summit FM partners with Akron Public Schools and Struthers City Schools to provide transformative radio broadcasting experiences for middle and high school students. Made possible through Ohio Arts Council funding, this initiative has created authentic pathways for young people to discover their voices—both literally and figuratively—while developing professional skills in media production. Our partnership with Ellet Community Learning Center and Miller South Visual & Performing Arts has produced remarkable results, with students overcoming initial voice insecurities to become confident on-air personalities within just 3-4 sessions.

Students receive hands-on experience through "The 330" channel, celebrating Northeast Ohio's rich musical heritage from DEVO and The Black Keys to Macy Gray and Joe Walsh. Our dedicated student interns, compensated through OAC funding, have created professional-quality programming including album reviews, regional artist profiles, and daily live shows. Two students have emerged as regular contributors, with one hosting daily afternoon programming and writing band profiles, while another produces weekly album review segments—both demonstrating the sustained commitment that makes this program exceptional. The unique TARDIS recording studio, donated to Miller South by dedicated volunteers, serves as both an engaging educational tool and fully functional production facility, sparking creativity while providing access to professional-grade equipment.

The program's impact extends far beyond broadcasting skills. Students participate in live recording sessions with community leaders and donors, developing essential soft skills including guest relations, public speaking, and professional networking. Two program participants ranked among Summit County's top 25 students and received full-ride scholarships to the University of Akron, with both planning to continue volunteering at the station. This connection between hands-on media experience and academic achievement demonstrates how Summit Next creates lasting educational pathways, transforming initial nervousness into confidence and opening doors to higher education and career opportunities in the media arts.

Summit NEXT Community Impact Reports

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