DERRY — Pinkerton Academy video production students are making their mark on the local television scene.
As part of Pinkerton's own student-produced television program, "Pinkerton Prevents," students are producing shows with subjects like bullying, substance abuse, suicide prevention, and dropout rates and other issues valuable to teens today taking center stage.
All parts of the show are student-driven, except for the interview segment, when producer and show host Laura Bilodeau, a former Pinkerton staffer, takes over.
"Pinkerton Prevents" has produced programs for nine years.
The first show of the new season featured Miss New Hampshire Regan Hartley talking about her anti-bullying platform.
In the past, "Pinkerton Prevents" has taped shows with other prominent guests including a 2009 stint at the Statehouse with Gov. John Lynch, who spoke about the state's dropout rates and how to keep teenagers in school.
Junior Sarah Pirette said she directs and edits as a "Pinkerton Prevents" staffer.
Miranda Rowan said most students multi-task when it comes to getting the jobs done on the show.
"I like it a lot," she said. "We all pitch in as a group."
Matthew Seidel said he has been involved since his freshman year.
Now, as a senior, he is hoping students tune in.
"I hope kids watch and get the message," he said.
The possibility of helping someone through a TV program means a lot, students said.
"I like helping make a show that gives the messages," Chester senior Jackson Grimm said.
The programs air on local cable television stations and also at Pinkerton at different times throughout the day.
"Pinkerton Prevents" episodes also are shown on the Pinkerton Academy website.
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