During the weeks leading up to this year’s first day at Bedford High School, Bill Jennings knew a group of aspiring video journalists could talk the talk.

More than a month into the school year, that group of students has proven to Jennings that they have the walk to accompany it.

Before taking part in his first day of high school, freshman David Schunk was in touch with Jennings and school officials with plans to create a television production club.

“When he was telling me what he was doing, I was thinking let’s see where it goes from here,” Jennings said. “Next thing I know I’m getting e-mails from his ‘recruits’ that he had already gotten to sign up. That was when I realized that we had found the spark we were looking for.”

Each afternoon students in the Bedford News Station group produce the morning announcements, and adviser Jim Pingree said the young media members are hoping to expand their broadcasts to include weekly newscasts.

Pingree, who is also the school’s theater coordinator, said Bedford News Station isn’t just for those who want to be involved in front of and behind the camera.

“It’s open to anyone who wants to come out and help, which is a big benefit,” Pingree said. “We’re in the process of designing sets and building backgrounds, so it gives opportunities to students in a lot of different areas.”

The school is equipped with the capability to air live broadcasts from the football field and gymnasium, so students have been working on their play-by-play skills in hopes of finding a spot behind the microphone.

Group members have already gone to shoot and broadcast a football game, bringing it back to Jennings for constructive criticism, and while the project did not air, he said they have already made vast improvements since that time.

Jennings said he’s been particularly impressed by Schunk’s ability to lead at a young age.

“His enthusiasm is very contagious. At a young age he’s a consummate salesman,” said Jennings. “What I’ve noticed is that the people he’s surrounded himself with have that same level of enthusiasm. I hope we get to keep them as they mature. If I can use this group of young students to sell the concept of student television production, it’ll be worthwhile not just to their high school, but to their whole community.”

Though the school has a video course and a separate production group that focuses on filming theater activities, Pingree said Bedford News Station is a critical aspect for those interested in television.

“This gives students a way to put what they’ve learned to good use,” Pingree said. “It’s a more hands-on method than the classroom. The course has to fit your schedule, while this lets you get involved at whatever level you want to get involved.”

According to Jennings, the group is still “green,” but will gain more credibility as they have more projects go on the air.

“They’re working hard to get respect,” Jennings said. “They’re going to get that when more and more people get to see the work they’re doing.”