With so many children out of school due to the coronavirus pandemic, Ozarks Public Television has begun broadcasting a new, over-the-air educational channel so that high-quality learning can continue at home. The free programming will serve viewers across the Ozarks region, including the many families who do not have internet access or computers at home.
OPT's WORLD Channel is for students in grades 6-12, and it is now airing from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. locally on weekdays.
According to a news release from OPT, the channel offers science, history, and English language arts programs, as well as resources from PBS Learning Media that are aligned to curriculum standards in every state. These tools include "grab-and-go" activities, lesson plans, and interactive media that teachers can use.
In the release, Ozarks Public Broadcasting Interim General Manager, Rachel Knight, said the network is committed to using its public media channels to support teachers, students, and caregivers during these challenging times.
Viewers will need to rescan their televisions to access this free, over-the-air channel, which is broadcast on 21.4 for most viewers across the region, and on 26.4 in the Joplin area.
KSMU and OPT are both a part of Ozarks Public Broadcasting.
Teachers and parents can find the lesson plans, program schedules and subjects available through WORLD Channel by going to https://optv.pbslearningmedia.org/.
Along with those WORLD Channel programs for middle and high school students, Ozarks Public TV continues it regular 24-7 PBS Kids service for younger children.