Lawrence High School’s video announcements were taken to the next level this year by the video II and III classes. 

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The two video classes produced, filmed, and edited two episodes of the Lion’s Roar almost every week for the student body. The episodes gave a brief overview of upcoming events and had fun side segments and skits. 

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 “We always want to have something fun, a news package, something sports related, that sort of stuff,” senior Milo Bitters said. 

Bitters took video classes all throughout high school and worked predominantly on the Friday episodes of the Lion’s Roar. 

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The crew switched roles every week to give all students involved a chance to try new roles in the video making process. 

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“It’s a really open, free space, everyone’s really welcoming in there. We’re like a family,” senior Hayden Houts said. “This year I’m really taking on a leadership role. I’m really just making sure that it runs smoothly and help get the announcements running and on its feet.”

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The video II and III classes began in-person video announcements last year after producing them via Webex during the 2020-2021 school year. Teacher Zach Saltz was the teacher to help to bring the announcements to life. 

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“When we were on lockdown and at home, we couldn’t do intercom announcements anymore,” Saltz said. “Then it gradually turned into something we do in the studio three times a week by the end of that year. That was very, very busy and a lot of hard work on such a small group.”

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The Lion’s Roar was a great success, airing two high quality episodes each week. Most teachers played the announcements in their fifth hour classes. 

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“I like seeing people’s reactions. Normally if I’m in a class where they’re showing them, most people don’t know I was one to make them.” Bitters said. 

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Video students hoped for the tradition and family atmosphere to stay alive in the announcements for the coming years. Saltz reflected on how he wanted the announcements to continue being inclusive to all students at Lawrence High. 

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“We really want to show off the diversity of our school and be inclusive in the broadcast,” Saltz said. “I don’t want it to be the same kids over and over again. We have such a unique and inclusive building and I want the broadcast to reflect all of that.”