FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 28, 2026
Beyond The Rock Launches Student Weather Program at Rockford High School
ROCKFORD, Mich. — There was plenty of excitement inside the Beyond The Rock studio Thursday morning as Rockford High School students officially launched their new weather broadcasting program with a ribbon-cutting celebration for the program’s brand-new weather desk.
Guests gathered to watch students give a soft launch of the weather segment, showcasing the same kind of on-air presentation, graphics, and production techniques used in professional broadcasting.
“One of the coolest things about Beyond The Rock is seeing students discover strengths they didn’t know they had,” said Kris DeYoung, Beyond The Rock teacher. “This program helps students build confidence, communication skills, teamwork, professionalism, and the ability to think on their feet. Those skills matter whether students go into broadcasting, business, education, or anything else.”
The new weather desk expands Beyond The Rock’s nationally recognized student broadcasting program and introduces students to the technical side of weather production and media.
“This gave us the opportunity to create something that feels very real and very professional for students,” said Jason Springer, Beyond The Rock teacher and coordinator. “Students are learning on equipment and software similar to what they would use in college and in the broadcasting industry. They’re gaining hands-on experience with production, graphics, editing, presentation, and studio technology that will prepare them well for future careers in broadcasting and media.”
The program also received support from Beyond The Rock alumni who now work in national broadcasting, including Ginger Zee, Chief Meteorologist at ABC News, and Derek Van Dam, CNN Meteorologist. In addition to contributing to the fundraiser, Zee donated professional weather equipment to help enhance the student experience.
In another exciting partnership, WOODTV8 recently installed a live weather camera on the roof of Rockford High School. The camera, which overlooks a west-facing view of the community, will be featured during WOODTV8 weather broadcasts and is currently the station’s only west-facing camera in West Michigan.
The project was made possible through support from community donors, local businesses, parents, family members, Beyond The Rock alumni, and supporters who believe in creating unique opportunities for Rockford students.
“We are incredibly grateful for the community support behind this project,” said Beth Meyer-Kraff, Executive Director of the Rockford Education Foundation. “This is what makes Rockford special. Donors near and far came together because they believe in giving students opportunities to dream, explore careers, and gain real-world experience. Programs like this simply would not happen without generous supporters, dedicated educators, and a school district committed to innovation.”
Beyond The Rock has earned more Michigan Association of Broadcasters awards than any other high school program in the state and continues to give students hands-on learning experiences that prepare them for college, careers, and life beyond high school.
