Education is Still at Our Core

With unfolding radio news, continuous classical music and compelling primetime programs from American Experience to Downton Abbey, what sometimes gets lost in the mix is – arguably – the most important value WXXI provides. WXXI’s educational programs and services are not only the backbone of our mission, but one of the most fundamental ways in which we interact with our community.  WXXI is dedicated to engaging, inspiring, and educating its audiences – regardless of age or income. Aside from the 15 hours of safe, commercial free PBS Kids programming we provide each weekday, it is our educational outreach which makes us invaluable to so many. Our Educational Outreach Center provides workshops for teachers, parents and caregivers across the region. We design hands-on activities and instructions to help develop literacy, school readiness and social development. Our Ready-to Learn program increases emergent literacy skills through appropriate use of television as an educational tool combined with books and activities. Additionally, our community partnerships help extend the work we do even further.

This incredible interaction from users of our services and fans of our programming was quite clear in two recent events. WXXI was part of the Kids Fest 2012 at Total Sports Experience where several thousand attendees met some of their favorite PBS characters and learned more about our new WXXI Kids Club. The next day, over 6,000 visitors came to the National Museum of Play as WXXI brought the Cat in the Hat to Rochester and took part in read-aloud stories, game challenges and hands-on science activities. Parents, caregivers, and especially the children left with souvenirs and memories of a great day. Through our strong educational mission, WXXI’s efforts in childhood development and literacy help sustain the growth of our community.  And, thanks to your support, we can continue to make a difference in so many young lives.