Student Podcast Winners Announced
The Regional Educational Media Center (REMC) Association of Michigan, Michigan Association of Computer Users in Learning (MACUL) and Michigan Association of School Librarians (MASL) are thrilled to announce the winners of their first ever joint Podcast Challenge. This challenge aimed at showcasing Michigan students’ innovative ideas and perspectives in a podcast format.
Five 
winners were announced and presented with podcasting equipment from REMC SAVE during the MACUL Conference closing ceremony on March 15th.
Launched in November, the contest was open to students in 5th through 12th grade who created an original podcast either individually or with a group. Each podcast was submitted by a Michigan educator and awards were given in both a middle and high school category.
Podcasts were judged based on information, structure, personality, creativity and production. After evaluation by members from each organization, five winners were announced:
High School Division:
- First Place: “Icing the Kicker”
- Students: Patrick and Jayden
- Teacher: Loren Gosling
- School District: Rochester Community School
- Second Place: “Student Experience is a Cut Above”
- Students: Kevin, Brooks and Auggie
- Teacher: Louise Palardy
- School: Notre Dame Preparatory High School
Middle School Division:
- First Place: “Teachers: Behind the Scenes”
- Students: Charlie, Rowan, Chloe and Varian
- Teacher: Kate Wirsing
- School District: Mt. Pleasant Public Schools
- Second Place: “Swim Lanes and Life Lessons”
- Student: Autumn
- Teacher: Debbie Walton
- School District: Bay City Public Schools
- Third Place: “What is the Meaning of Empathy”
- Students: Chloe, Kali and Adriana
- Teacher: Melisa Overway
- School: Reeths Puffer Intermediate
“We are beyond excited to recognize the outstanding information and creativity demonstrated by the winners of the Podcast Challenge” said Melinda Waffle, Professional Learning Coordinator for REMC. “These podcasts not only highlight the diverse perspectives of today’s students, but also inspire meaningful conversations.” A second challenge is already underway, with submissions due September 30, 2024.