Merced Union High School District has started up a podcast, a fast-growing medium, to disseminate information during the current health crisis and school closures. The podcast entitled “Impact” will aid the district’s efforts to provide information to students, staff and the community

“We’re always looking for new ways to reach our stakeholders and we are excited to add this new medium to our toolbox.” said MUHSD Superintendent Alan Peterson. “Now more than ever, it’s important that the district communicates as much as possible and in as many different ways as possible to reach as many people as possible.”

The district’s Director of Communications, Sam Yniguez, hosts the show that features interviews with students and staff members across the district who are making an impact at their sites and in the community.

“I’ve been a long-time podcast listener and recognize that the value and accessible nature of podcasts lends itself well to education,” said Yniguez. “And when you combine the current climate where information is being consumed at such a rapid rate with the fact that everyone is looking for something to do while sheltered in their homes, it seemed like the perfect time to start it up.”

MUHSD plans to record at least one new episode per week throughout the duration of the closure. Superintendent Peterson has appeared as a guest on two of the three episodes uploaded so far, and has committed to returning as long as there are questions from students and staff regarding the school closures. Questions may be submitted on the district’s social media pages or via email to the host (syniguez@muhsd.org).

“Impact” is available on the district's webpage, SoundCloud, Anchor FM and Spotify.