NIXA LIVE Student Production

1. Program Overview

Student Powered. Real-World Experience. Bringing the Game to You.

Nixa LIVE Student Production is more than a high school broadcast team — it's a fully student-run production dedicated to delivering high-quality coverage of Nixa Public Schools' athletic events, performances, and community stories. What began as a simple live stream has evolved into a hands-on media program where students take the lead in every part of the process — from behind-the-scenes technical direction to on-air announcing.

At its core, Nixa LIVE exists to provide students with real-world learning experiences that prepare them for college, careers, and beyond. Every broadcast represents a collaboration between creativity, technology, communication, and teamwork. Students are not only telling the story of Nixa athletics — they're building the skills, confidence, and professionalism to tell any story, in any industry, for the rest of their lives.

What We Do

Nixa LIVE produces live multi-camera broadcasts for nearly every varsity sporting event at Nixa High School — including football, volleyball, basketball, wrestling, baseball, softball, and soccer — along with special events such as graduation, assemblies, and performances.

Each production features student camera operators, directors, technical directors, graphics operators, announcers, and sideline reporters working together in real time to deliver a professional viewing experience to fans both at home and across the country.

Program Pillars

• Leadership & Accountability — Students rotate through leadership roles such as producer, director, and announcer.
• Career Readiness — Students apply classroom learning to real events that reach thousands of viewers.
• Professionalism — Every broadcast is an opportunity to practice reliability, communication, and composure.
• Technical Mastery — From video editing to network setup, students get hands-on experience with collegiate and professional tools.

Learning Through Experience

Every event is a classroom. Students earn credit while gaining real-world experience that mirrors the expectations of professional broadcasters, producers, and journalists. They learn how to meet deadlines, collaborate under pressure, communicate clearly, and solve complex technical challenges — all while representing their school and community.

Nixa LIVE operates as a class during the school day and requires commitment beyond regular school hours for event coverage, which may include evenings, weekends, and away games.

2. Program Mission & Vision

Mission

To empower students to produce professional, engaging, and community-centered live broadcasts that celebrate Nixa's athletes, activities, and achievements while developing real-world skills in media, marketing, technology, and leadership.

Vision

To empower students to tell Nixa's story through real-world media experiences that connect, inspire, and unite our community.

We envision a program where every student learns by doing — developing technical skill, creativity, leadership, and confidence through authentic, hands-on production.

Nixa LIVE seeks to bridge education, athletics, and community pride by transforming classrooms into studios, students into professionals, and broadcasts into shared experiences that reach beyond the game. Through storytelling, innovation, and teamwork, we prepare future media leaders who are student powered, career ready, and community connected — bringing the game, the story, and the spirit of Nixa to everyone, everywhere.

3. Eligibility & Enrollment

Contact the instructor for current eligibility requirements and enrollment information.

4. Grading Policy & Expectations

Nixa LIVE is graded on a point-based system that emphasizes hands-on event participation while also assessing classroom learning and project work.

Grading Categories (2nd Semester)

Event Points & Deductions

Each event will be labeled with total points possible before sign-up. Standard events are typically worth 50 points (adjusted by event type/role if necessary).

Weekly Point Requirements

To successfully complete the semester, students must accumulate 600 (Seated) or 750 (Virtual) points through event participation. The following table shows target point accumulation by week:

5. Event Signup Rules

New Event Release Time

Events go live every Sunday at 3:00 PM. Set an alarm so you don't miss signup!

Signup Timeline

• Event sign-ups open 2 weeks prior to the event (every Sunday at 3 PM)
• Sign-ups close 5 days before the Report Time
• All students must JOIN or DECLINE events

Waitlist Policy

When events are full, a waitlist is available. Positions may open up and will be filled in order of the waitlist. Students will be notified if they move from the waitlist to an active position.

Changes After Signup Closes

If a student cannot attend after sign-ups close, they must:

• Find a replacement from the class
• Notify the instructor immediately
• Accept a −10 point deduction

No-shows without coverage will result in a −1.5× deduction of the event's maximum points. These points are non-recoverable. (e.g., a 50-point event = 75-point deduction)

6. Attendance & Absence Procedures

Expected Attendance

Once you sign up for an event, you are making a commitment to the team and to the broadcast. Reliability is essential to our program's success.

Reporting Absences

If you must miss an event due to illness, emergency, or other unavoidable circumstances:

• Contact the instructor as soon as possible (call/text/email)
• If after signup closes, find a replacement if possible
• Provide documentation for excused absences (doctor's note, school activity verification, etc.)

Excused vs. Unexcused Absences

Excused absences include:

• Documented illness
• Family emergency (verified by parents)
• School-sponsored activities

Excused absences with proper documentation and advance notice will not result in the no-show penalty, though replacement deductions may still apply if notified after signup closes. Unexcused absences (failure to show without communication or valid reason) will receive full no-show penalties.

Seated Course

Students will attend during their course hour to the instructor's classroom for in-class training and instruction, including assignments and quizzes.

Virtual Course

Students MUST check in 1× per week with the instructor. Fill out the Check-In Form and talk with the instructor about upcoming events, assignments, and projects.

7. Equipment Policies

Equipment Overview

Nixa LIVE utilizes a wide range of broadcast equipment including cameras, wireless microphones, mixing boards, computers running vMix software, graphics systems, and more. This equipment is expensive and essential to our broadcasts.

Equipment Care Expectations

• Handle all equipment with care and respect
• Follow proper setup and teardown procedures
• Report any malfunctions or damage immediately
• Keep equipment organized and stored properly
• Never leave equipment unattended

Checkout Procedures

Equipment checkout for events will be supervised by the instructor. Students are responsible for specific equipment assigned to their role. All equipment must be accounted for and returned at the end of each event.

Damage & Loss

Accidents happen, but negligence will not be tolerated:

• Minor damage due to normal use: No penalty
• Damage due to carelessness or misuse: −15 points + possible restitution
• Lost equipment: Student/family responsible for replacement cost

Repeated equipment violations may result in removal from the program.

Packing & Cleanup

All students must stay until equipment is properly packed and stored. Leaving before dismissal or failing to help with cleanup results in a −20 point deduction.

8. Student Conduct & Expectations

Representing Nixa Public Schools

As a member of Nixa LIVE, whether on-air or off-air, you are a representative of Nixa Public Schools. You must conduct yourself professionally and respectfully at all times, reflecting positively on the school and its community.

Prohibited Behavior

Students will not engage in:

• Obscene gestures or language
• Mocking, taunting, or disrespectful actions toward others
• Bias, discrimination, or harassment of any kind
• Violation of school technology policies
• Unauthorized use or sharing of broadcast content

Professional Standards

• Arrive on time and prepared
• Stay at your assigned position throughout the event
• Communicate clearly and respectfully with team members
• Take direction from crew leaders and instructors
• Maintain focus during broadcasts
• Support fellow crew members

Consequences of Misconduct

Violations of conduct expectations may result in disciplinary action beyond the Nixa High School Student Handbook, including:

• Point deductions
• Suspension from events
• Parent conference
• Removal from the program
• School administrative referral

9. Dress Code & Identification

Nixa LIVE ID Requirement

All Nixa LIVE students must wear their official Nixa LIVE identification badge at ALL events, both home and away. Failure to wear your ID results in a −10 point deduction per event.

Dress Code for Events

Students should dress appropriately for broadcast events:

• Neat, clean appearance
• Nixa LIVE or Nixa High School apparel encouraged
• No inappropriate graphics, language, or symbols
• Closed-toe shoes (for safety around equipment)
• Dress for the venue (warm clothing for outdoor winter events, etc.)

On-Air Talent Additional Requirements

Students serving as on-camera talent (play-by-play, color commentary, sideline reporters) should dress in business casual attire or Nixa LIVE branded clothing.

10. Travel & Transportation

Away Game Transportation

For away events, transportation will be arranged by the instructor. Students must ride to and from away events with the crew or on the athletic team bus unless written parent permission is provided in advance for alternative transportation.

Student Driver Policy

Students may not drive themselves or other students to away events without explicit written permission from parents and the instructor. Equipment will be transported by designated crew members or instructors.

Behavior During Travel

• Follow all school transportation rules
• Be courteous and professional
• Stay with the group
• Represent Nixa positively at all times

Early Departure / Late Arrival

If you need to leave an away event early or arrive separately, written parent permission must be submitted to the instructor at least 48 hours in advance.

11. Safety Protocols

Emergency Procedures

In case of emergency during an event:

• Notify the instructor or crew leader immediately
• Follow venue emergency procedures
• Do not leave the venue without notifying staff
• Emergency contact numbers will be provided

Equipment Safety

• Use proper lifting techniques for heavy equipment
• Keep cables organized to prevent tripping hazards
• Never run with equipment
• Report unsafe conditions immediately

Weather-Related Safety

For outdoor events, students should dress appropriately for weather conditions. In case of severe weather (lightning, tornado warnings, etc.), follow venue staff instructions and prioritize personal safety over broadcast continuity.

Medical Information

Students with medical conditions, allergies, or special needs should inform the instructor at the beginning of the semester. All medical information will be kept confidential.

12. Communication Expectations

How Students Will Be Contacted

• Class announcements and discussions
• Canvas announcements and messages
• Email to student Nixa accounts
• Text messages
• Event signup platform notifications

Student Responsibilities

• Check Canvas daily
• Check nixalive.net daily
• Monitor school email regularly
• Respond to instructor communications within 24 hours
• Check event signups weekly
• Communicate proactively about conflicts or concerns

Parent Communication

Parents are encouraged to contact the instructor with questions or concerns. Parent contact information and preferred communication methods will be collected at the beginning of the semester.

Response Time Expectations

The instructor will respond to student/parent communications within 24–48 hours during the school week.

13. Social Media Policy

Representing the Program Online

Students may share their participation in Nixa LIVE on social media, but must remember they are representing the program, school, and community.

Acceptable Social Media Use

• Sharing behind-the-scenes photos (with instructor approval)
• Promoting upcoming broadcasts
• Celebrating team accomplishments
• Professional networking related to broadcast careers

Prohibited Social Media Activities

• Posting clips of live broadcasts without permission
• Negative comments about opponents, officials, or community members
• Sharing confidential team information
• Inappropriate content while identified as a Nixa LIVE member
• Cyberbullying or harassment

Content Ownership

All broadcast content produced during Nixa LIVE events is the property of Nixa Public Schools. Students may not reproduce, distribute, or profit from this content without written permission.

Violations of social media policy may result in disciplinary action including suspension or removal from the program.

14. Technology Use Policy

Personal Device Use During Events

Personal phones and devices should be silenced and stored during broadcasts unless needed for your assigned role. Focus and attention are critical during live events.

Acceptable Personal Device Use

• Communication with family (during breaks)
• Emergency situations
• Approved research or reference materials
• Photography/video as approved by instructor

Broadcast Equipment Use

School computers, cameras, and broadcast equipment are to be used solely for Nixa LIVE purposes. Students may not:

• Access personal social media during events
• Download or install unauthorized software
• Use equipment for personal projects without permission
• Modify system settings or configurations

Cybersecurity & Data Protection

• Never share login credentials
• Report suspicious activity or security concerns
• Follow school technology acceptable use policies

15. Roles & Responsibilities

Nixa LIVE broadcasts require coordination across many specialized roles. Students will be trained in multiple positions and may rotate through different responsibilities.

Production Skills Students Will Develop

• Camera Operation & Composition — Learning how to frame and follow fast-paced action using broadcast-level cameras.
• Live Direction & Switching — Managing camera angles, transitions, and instant replays from the production control room.
• Audio & Commentary — Delivering play-by-play, color analysis, and sideline interviews to engage the audience.
• Graphics — Designing on-screen visuals, scorebugs, and animations that elevate the broadcast presentation.
• Replay — Capturing, curating, and rolling instant replays that showcase pivotal moments from every angle.
• Social Media & Promotion (Coming in the Future) — Creating highlight reels, sponsor recognitions, and event promotions across multiple platforms.

Default Crew Positions

• Director
• Play-by-Play Announcer
• Color Analyst
• Sideline Reporter
• Camera Operator
• Graphics Specialist
• Replay Operator
• Videoboard Operator
• Statistician

Technology & Equipment

Students operate within a modern broadcast infrastructure that mirrors professional studios. Using cameras and advanced graphics systems, they learn not just how to use technology, but how to integrate it creatively to tell better stories. The program continues to grow each year — adding remote camera systems, instant replay capabilities, and custom graphics packages designed by students themselves.

16. Event Cancellation Policy

Weather-Related Cancellations

If a game is cancelled or postponed due to weather, students will be notified as soon as possible via Canvas, email, and text message (if provided). Monitor your communications closely during inclement weather periods.

School Closures

If Nixa Public Schools are closed due to weather or emergency, games may still proceed. Check communication channels for updates. If your RSVP status changes due to weather or school closures, please notify the instructor as soon as possible.

Last-Minute Changes

Game times, locations, or formats may change with little notice. Students signed up for events should check communications the day before and the day of each event for any updates.

Rescheduled Events

When events are rescheduled, students who were originally signed up will have first opportunity to claim their position for the new date. If the rescheduled date conflicts with your schedule, notify the instructor immediately.

Points for Cancelled Events

Students do not earn points for cancelled events unless they report to the venue before cancellation is announced. Event point requirements may be adjusted at semester's end if significant cancellations occur.

17. Community Connection & Beyond the Broadcast

Bringing Nixa to the Community

Nixa LIVE is proud to bring the game to our community. Whether it's grandparents watching from another state, alumni following their alma mater, or parents cheering from home, every broadcast connects people through shared pride in Nixa.

Beyond the Broadcast

Nixa LIVE doesn't stop when the final whistle blows. Students produce highlight reels, interviews, and behind-the-scenes features that showcase the personalities and stories of Nixa athletes, coaches, and community members. They promote events through social media, create sponsorship campaigns, and build their own digital portfolios.

Sponsor Partnerships

The program partners closely with local sponsors and businesses, whose support makes it possible to maintain cutting-edge equipment and expand opportunities for students. In turn, students learn how to recognize and promote sponsors professionally — an essential skill for careers in media, marketing, and communications.

Career Pathways

Through these experiences, many students discover their career paths — pursuing majors in journalism, film, communications, sports media, and marketing. Others simply take with them a strong work ethic, a passion for teamwork, and the confidence that comes from creating something meaningful and shared with the world.

18. Appeals Process

Nixa LIVE recognizes that questions or concerns may arise regarding point deductions, grading, or program decisions. Students and parents have the right to seek clarification and appeal decisions they believe to be incorrect or unfair.

Step 1: Informal Discussion

Students should first speak directly with the instructor to discuss the concern. Many issues can be resolved through clarification and conversation. This should occur within 3 school days of the incident or grade posting.

Step 2: Written Appeal

If the issue is not resolved through discussion, the student or parent may submit a written appeal via email to the instructor within 5 school days of the incident. The appeal should include:

• Specific description of the concern
• Date and event (if applicable)
• Reason the decision should be reconsidered
• Any supporting documentation

The instructor will review the appeal and respond in writing within 5 school days.

Step 3: Administrative Review

If the student/parent disagrees with the instructor's decision, they may request a review by the building principal or designee. This request must be submitted in writing within 5 school days of receiving the instructor's response.

Final Decision

The administrative review decision is final. All timeline requirements must be followed for appeals to be considered.

Grade Changes

Any grade changes resulting from the appeals process will be made retroactively. Students remain responsible for meeting all program requirements during the appeals process.

19. Student Broadcast Agreement

This agreement must be signed and returned before participating in Nixa LIVE events.

20. Contact Information

Instructor

• Name: Jordan Burns
• Email: jordanburns@nixaschools.net (opens mail application)
• Phone: 417-724-3612
• Room: 214

Canvas Course

All course materials, announcements, and assignments can be found on Canvas. Check daily for updates.

Nixa LIVE Crew App (Parent Portal)

View your student's event schedule, points progress, and upcoming signups in this Parent Portal at nixalive.net.

Program Website & Live Stream

• Website: nixalive.net
• Live Stream: YouTube @nixapublicschools/streams

Thank you for being part of Nixa LIVE!
We look forward to an excellent season of broadcasts.