Each school year, we watch the seasons change, trends come and go, and students grow older and wiser. While schools are always focused on the future and preparing the next generation, it’s essential to reflect on past accomplishments to showcase collective growth. What better way to share your organization’s story than through video? Capture the milestones, celebrate the anniversaries, and inspire your community with the moments that matter most.
At Media Services, we like to lead by example—we not only share tips on how to make the most of your content, we show you how it’s done. Whether you’re planning a milestone video of your own or work directly with Media Services, here’s what you can expect throughout the creation process.
Craft a Compelling Script
When sourcing and compiling content for your milestone video, it can feel pretty chaotic sifting through years of footage. However, the video script will act as your throughline, especially when you get into the nitty-gritty of your research. We recommend building your script around the key highlights of the subject at hand.
Remember, these videos will act as a time capsule for your organization, so it’s important to focus on the standout moments throughout the overall timeline. Remember to keep your audience in mind when defining your milestones—pinpoint what has had the most impact on the community and culture. In most cases, recapping historical events is best done in chronological order to define a clear, contextual timeline.
This year in particular, the Central Indiana Education Service Center is celebrating 35 years of serving and supporting Indiana schools. To celebrate this accomplishment, our team here at Media Services produced a highlight video to commemorate this long-standing organization on its 35th anniversary. We wove nostalgia into the video script, reminding viewers of how far the organization has come throughout the decades.
Leverage Staff Interviews
Great storytelling stems from the heart of the organization—the people. More so, the faculty and staff spend their days alongside students, directly making an impact on the school community. When mapping out your video, set aside some time to film interviews from different departments; this way, you can showcase a full spectrum of representation across the organization. Individual testimonials are a great way to build trust with your audience and keep them engaged in your message.
Previously, we created a promotional video for Milan Community Schools, featuring a wide variety of staff members, including the superintendent, coaches, teachers, principals, and students. Following their motto, “Proud of the past… Focused on the future,” this video showcases the continuous impact the school corporation has made over the years.
Highlight Longevity and Changes
You always need a little yin-yang in your content—it’s all about balance. More specifically, we recommend underlining any noteworthy changes as well as programs that have stood the test of time. For instance, if you’re celebrating a school anniversary, make an effort to acknowledge past programs that have shaped the foundation of your organization and are still around in some way.
Applying this format to the sports sector, we helped Hamilton Heights spotlight their 1970 Hall of Fame Football Team. The video shares memories from the players and coach while honoring those who are no longer with us.
Master Storytelling In Collaboration with Media Services
All in all, mastering the art of storytelling via video can truly elevate your organization’s narrative and connection to the community. Whether you’re looking to celebrate milestones, document history, or shine a light on the inspiring stories, Media Services is here to help. Don’t miss the opportunity to showcase your school’s journey and the incredible people behind it. Reach out to Media Services today to learn how we can transform your vision into a captivating video that will resonate for years to come!
