The Santa Rita Union School District (SRUSD) is set to enhance its educational offerings through a new partnership with the Media Center for Art Education and Technology (McKay). During the board meeting on April 23, 2025, Emiliano Valdez, the director of McKay, presented an exciting initiative aimed at integrating digital media and communication skills into the district's curriculum.

Valdez emphasized the importance of equipping students with the tools to tell their stories in a digital age. The program will provide hands-on experience with professional-grade equipment, allowing students to learn about video production, broadcasting, and digital storytelling. This initiative not only aims to foster creativity but also to develop essential communication skills that are increasingly vital in today's world.

The partnership will include after-school programs, summer workshops, and a self-contained news broadcasting system that enables students to produce their own content, such as morning announcements and promotional videos. Valdez highlighted the goal of creating a sustainable model within the schools, ensuring that these programs can continue to thrive long after initial implementation.

In addition to the media initiatives, the board discussed the importance of student involvement in promoting the district's activities. By integrating student perspectives and contributions into the media projects, SRUSD aims to enhance community engagement and showcase the talents of its students.

This collaboration with McKay represents a significant step forward for SRUSD, as it seeks to prepare students for future opportunities in a digital landscape. The district is committed to fostering an environment where students can thrive as content creators and communicators, ultimately benefiting the entire community. As the program rolls out, SRUSD looks forward to seeing the positive impact on student engagement and learning outcomes.