Running a student-led broadcast program can feel overwhelming. Equipment fails, students step out at the last minute, and everything has to run live.

But with the right approach, these programs can transform students into confident leaders who thrive under pressure.

I saw that firsthand while spending Homecoming night with Marcus Scheer and the Johnson County Central Striv crew.

Key 1: Flexibility

Fifteen minutes before kickoff, one student had to bow out due to illness. Without missing a beat, Marcus reshuffled roles — moving a switcher to replay, bringing in a new camera operator, and getting everyone back in sync.

In broadcasting, things rarely go as planned. Marcus models how to adapt quickly and demonstrates to students that flexibility is a valuable skill worth learning.

Key 2: Teaching Every Rep

Marcus doesn’t just direct the broadcast; he teaches constantly. Whether it’s adjusting camera angles or giving live feedback on communication, he treats every rep as a teaching rep.

That steady coaching builds confidence. Students don’t just do the job — they learn it in real time.

Key 3: Making It Fun

At 10 p.m., long after the game ended, students were still laughing as they packed up their gear. That’s the secret sauce: fun keeps students engaged, committed, and eager to come back.

When students enjoy the process, they become more invested in the program. And buy-in is what makes a student-led broadcast sustainable.

Why This Matters for Teachers

Programs like JCC Striv prove that broadcasting is more than live streaming games. It’s education through experience:

• Students learn teamwork and communication.

• They develop confidence under pressure.

• They gain real-world skills that stick far beyond school.

And none of it happens without a teacher willing to lead with flexibility, steady teaching, and a sense of fun.

See It in Action

🎥 Watch the full behind-the-scenes video of Marcus Scheer and the JCC crew here:

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