Our WCSS newsroom continues to grow, and so do our young storytellers.
I’m excited to share the latest highlights from Week 6 of our summer collaboration with Community Stepping Stones, where students are creating and producing their very own children’s television station, WCSS—Welcome to Community Stepping Stones.
One of the most rewarding parts of this program has been watching students become more confident every week. At the beginning of the summer, many were simply learning how to use cameras, microphones, lights, and a news desk. Today, they’re confidently stepping in front of the camera to tell stories that reflect their interests, experiences, and the community they care about.
This week’s news update is filled with wonderful examples of that growth. Our young reporters share artwork they’ve created at Community Stepping Stones, imagine exciting superhero adventures across the city of Tampa, celebrate the donation of a new basketball hoop that has brought excitement to campus, and even produce a thoughtful public service announcement encouraging everyone to help keep our neighborhoods clean by picking up litter.
These moments remind us that storytelling is about much more than making videos. It helps children build confidence, strengthen communication skills, practice teamwork, solve problems creatively, and discover that their voices can make a positive difference.
I’m incredibly grateful to the dedicated staff, volunteers, mentors, and families at Community Stepping Stones for creating such a supportive environment where students are encouraged to explore, imagine, and lead. Special thanks also go to our wonderful summer programming sponsor, Rough & Ready Media, whose support continues to make WCSS possible.
I invite you to watch our Week 6 highlights and celebrate these talented young reporters. Every view, comment, and share helps encourage our students and reminds them that their stories matter. Thank you for being part of this exciting journey—we can’t wait to share what the WCSS team creates next!