Oxford, AL – On April 8, 2025, instructors and student officers from the Oxford High School Jacket Media Program attended the City Council meeting to express their gratitude to Mayor Alton Craft and the members of the City Council for their generous financial support. This funding will enable 23 students enrolled in the program to attend the prestigious Alabama Skills USA Conference/Competition in Mobile, taking place from April 21-23, 2025.
The event, sponsored by the State Department of Education, provides a unique opportunity for students to enhance their media skills through hands-on learning from professionals in the field. In addition to valuable learning experiences, the competition also offers students the chance to compete against other high school media departments from across the state.
“This support means so much to our students,” said Anna Wheeler, an instructor in the program. “Not only will they gain valuable insights into the media industry, but they will also have the chance to showcase their skills and represent our school on a state level.”
The funding from the City Council also comes at a pivotal time, as the Jacket Media students are preparing to produce a major television broadcast documentary focused on the Rubato International Piano Competition and the city of Oxford. This project will provide an incredible opportunity for the students to apply their media knowledge in a real-world setting.
Student officers, including Vice President Lucas Caray, Secretary Timber Wright, Reporter Audrey Saxon, and Historian Kathryn Barnhill, joined their instructors Candace Finlay and Anna Wheeler to thank the Council members. They expressed appreciation for the City’s continued support of the program, which helps foster the development of young media professionals in the community.
“We are so proud of our students and their dedication to the Jacket Media Program,” Mayor Alton Craft said. “It’s important to support our youth and provide them with opportunities that will help them grow and succeed in their future careers.”
The City Council’s support underscores the ongoing commitment to education and youth development in Oxford, helping to empower the next generation of media professionals.
Pictured (L-R): Anna Wheeler, instructor; Kathryn Barnhill, historian; Lucas Caray, vice president; Timber Wright, secretary; Audrey Saxon, reporter; Candace Finlay, instructor.
