This last week the California AfterSchool Network partnered
with Michael Funk, Director of the Expanded Learning Division at
the CA Department of Education (EXLD) to release a
video interview or a video ”fireside chat” on COVID-19.
This video came together in less than 24
hours but has proven to be thus far one of the most
effective communications we have put out on COVID-19. On a call
last Tuesday afternoon, some of the group talked
about a shift in messaging we are seeing across the
country – emphasizing the personal versus the institutional.
At the same time, we (CAN and EXLD) were
experiencing frustration and stress about not being able to
get enough information out as quickly as people need it. A
few phone calls and brainstorms later that afternoon we
decided a weekly video message with Michael might be a great way
to fill the gap. Less than 24 hours later we were producing,
posting, and widely distributing our first video.
We took very little time to prep for this initial video and so
for future videos we know there are some changes we can make and
some elements we can add in, including bringing other folks from
the field in to participate in these chats and also share their
story from a more local perspective.
With that, we wanted to share some tips and ideas based on our
initial experience.