Maynard Public Schools WAVM Student-Run Radio and Television Station Raises Over $45,000 for Local Families in Need During the 47th Annual Beacon Santa Telethon

MAYNARD — Superintendent Brian Haas and Principal Elizabeth York are pleased to share that WAVM, the student-run radio and cable television station at Maynard High School has currently raised over $45,000 during its 47th annual Beacon Santa Telethon, marking the highest amount raised in the last 20 years. 

The Beacon Santa Telethon is WAVM’s annual December fundraiser benefitting families in need across 12 local communities. 

The telethon took place from Dec. 12-14, and donations remain open for about another month, and while there have currently been over $45,000 in donations, the number continues to grow. Residents and community members are encouraged to call into the station and provide a donation to support other community members who are in need this holiday season. 

Students manage all aspects of the telethon, such as on-air production, fundraising activities, live performances, and auctions. Proceeds support the telethon’s mission of providing holiday assistance to families throughout the area. 

The event has grown from a live radio broadcast to an around-the-clock telethon, supported and operated by WAVM students.

“The Beacon Santa Telethon is a powerful example of what happens when students combine creativity, leadership, and compassion,” said Maynard High School Principal York. “Our WAVM students are not only gaining real-world broadcasting experience, but also are making a meaningful difference in the lives of families across our region.”

The telethon’s success was made possible by the efforts of students, staff, faculty, and other volunteers who donated their time, energy, and resources. 

To view WAVM’s telethon broadcast announcing the amount raised, click here. 

“This milestone is more than just a number,” said WAVM Director Mike Basile. “It represents generosity, teamwork, and a shared belief in our mission.”

Communities served by the Beacon Santa Fund include Acton, Bedford, Billerica, Boxborough, Chelmsford, Concord, Lexington, Lincoln, Littleton, Maynard, Stow, and Westford. 

“WAVM is an excellent example of how Maynard Public Schools empowers students to lead with purpose,” said Superintendent Haas. “Through this program, students are gaining professional experience while using their skills to serve others and strengthen our communities.”

WAVM is open to Maynard students in Grades 6 through 12. Students in the club run the WAVM station from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m. after school throughout the school year. Through the club, students gain hands-on experience in broadcasting, media production, and communications.

The club is also part of Maynard High School’s Chapter 74 program, an approved career and technological education internship course open to high school students. Students in the program must complete 900 hours of classes and hands-on internship experience to earn a certificate in Multimedia Broadcast and Production from the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). 

Since 1973, WAVM has broadcast from Maynard High School and served the community through coverage of local events, weekly radio and television programming, and community initiatives. 

For more information about WVAM, visit https://wavm.org/

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