Peach County High students learn broadcast skills in AV technology, film program

PEACH COUNTY, Ga. — On game nights at Peach County High School, you might spot a trailer parked near the sidelines. Inside, students sit behind monitors, direct cameras, control sound, and manage graphics — producing live broadcasts just like a professional TV crew.

It’s all part of the school’s Audio-Visual Technology and Film program, where students get hands-on experience running sports broadcasts, mini shows, and even podcasts. The class is led by Robert Hill, who brings more than 20 years of TV news experience to the program.

In the classroom, students work with a sound system, technical director board, cameras, and editing equipment — the same kind of tools used in professional studios. 

Junior Makayla Williams, the team’s graphics operator, said she’s learning skills that go beyond technology.

“There’s not only me but we have a whole team where we work together and it’s just helping me sometimes overcome obstacles because Mr. Hill isn’t the type of teacher that just gives you the answer,” Williams said. “He wants you to just learn to see if you can do it yourself and if not, he’ll step in and help you.”

The creative side of the class also comes through in their podcast projects. 

Senior Jayla Knight said topics can range from recapping a recent football game to debating the school’s cell phone policy or politics. 

“It’s really fun because like he gives us so much like room to be creative,” Knight said. “He’ll give you an assignment, but it’s really like if you know how to do it, it’s yours to just kind of work with it and really like create something.”

Hill said the program is designed to prepare students for a range of careers. 

“There’s a lot of opportunities in this state, whether it’s live streaming, whether it’s film — film is real big in our state — to get these kids ready to get a job or to go to college because colleges need this experience as well,” Hill said.

Williams said her time in the program is shaping her future. 

“This is something fun that I’m learning how to do right now, but I definitely wanna continue it on through college,” she said. “Maybe not like a major, but I definitely want to be able to widen my skills beyond the classroom.”

The AV Technology and Film program is part of Peach County High’s Career, Technical and Agricultural Education (CTAE) offerings. It includes three course levels, and no prior experience is needed to join.