December 2024

Spotlight on Student Creativity: Podcast Challenge Winners Announced

Podcast Challenge Winners Announced

The Regional Educational Media Center (REMC) Association, Michigan Association of Computer Users in Learning (MACUL) and Michigan Association of School Librarians (MASL) proudly announce the winners of the second round of the Student Podcast Challenge. This exciting initiative celebrates the innovative ideas and perspectives of Michigan students through the engaging format of podcasting.

Six winning podcasts were announced at the MASL Conference and have won podcasting equipment from REMC SAVE to further classroom creative pursuits. Open to 5th-12th grade students, the challenge encouraged participants to craft original podcasts individually or in teams, with submissions submitted by Michigan educators. Awards were given in middle and high school divisions, recognizing excellence in information, structure, creativity, and production. Submissions were evaluated and judged by members from each partnering organization.

High School Division:

  • First Place: “The Weird Fellows Trio Premiere” 

    • Student Creators: Matt Tucker (Mason HS), Ryan McAdoo (East Lansing HS), Elizabeth Marschall (Fowlerville HS)

    • Teacher: Monique Colizzi

    • ISD: Ingham Intermediate School District - Wilson Talent Center

  • Second Place: “WRM Podcast”

    • Student Creators: Naomi Scott (Haslett HS), DeMartre Bruton (Waverly HS), Desimis Morgan (Mason HS), Serine Welcome (Holt HS)

    • Teacher: Monique Colizzi

    • ISD: Ingham Intermediate School District - Wilson Talent Center

  • Third Place: “Insurance Hub”

    • Student Creators: Joey Rodgers (Mason HS), Bri Berwald (Haslett HS) Jaren Adcock (Williamston HS)

    • Teacher: Monique Colizzi

    • ISD: Ingham Intermediate School District - Wilson Talent Center

Middle School Division:

  • First Place: “The Name Wrong Podcast”

    • Student Creator: Molly Ries

    • Teacher: Mary Carlson

    • School: Grand Ledge Public Schools

  • Second Place: “The History of Lego”

    • Student Creator: Michael Chen

    • Teacher: Mark Tomczak

    • School District: Okemos Public Schools

  • Third Place: “Living with Celiacs”

    • Student Creator: Maryn Markle

    • Teacher: Mark Tomczak

    • School: Okemos Public Schools

Melinda Waffle, Professional Learning Coordinator for REMC, shared her enthusiasm for the students' work: “We are thrilled to celebrate the creativity and diverse perspectives showcased in these podcasts. They not only reflect the innovation of our students but also spark meaningful dialogue.”

The 3rd Student Podcast Challenge is underway. Submissions are due January 31st and winners will be announced at the MACUL conference in March.