Jamestown (NDFU) Student-led radio stations KLHS and KLPS – broadcast from inside Linton Public High School in southcentral North Dakota – recently received a financial boost from Farmers Union Insurance that allows for studio expansion.

“The sponsorship has allowed us to construct a third studio and provide enhanced kinesthetic learning. By that I mean, hands on learning,” said Linton Public School Superintendent Paul Keeney. “We’re the only high school station operating in the state. Students learn by doing.”

In operation since February of 2017, the school’s radio classes are the brainchild of instructor Jay Schmaltz. “Our goal is not just to develop broadcasters. The goal is to get kids back to the basics [of communication]. When they are done with this class, they will know how to interview and talk to people,” he said.

The stations broadcast 24 hours a day, year-round. KLHS (AM 1620) is a low-watt station with a radius of about three miles around the city of Linton. It plays Oldies music and is broadcast on BEK TV’s cable channel 22. KLPS is a strictly online format station that plays Outlaw Country music.

Students provide all the voice talent for the stations, write stories and ad copy, sell advertising and conduct marketing including prize giveaways.

“I was very impressed with the students and curriculum,” said Kevin Ressler, chief sales, marketing & brand officer for Farmers Union Insurance. “It’s a unique learning opportunity and one we’re proud to support.”

FUI is also the premier sponsor of the North Dakota High School Activities Association and the BEK Broadcasting Network which televises high school athletic competitions throughout North Dakota.