WSHJ, Michigan’s longest running high school radio station, is back.

After a three-year hiatus, students are on the air again. Starting out early in 1967, Southfield High’s broadcasting station has been playing a variety of music for over 30 years and will now continue to play on.

Radio Advisor Tracy Armstrong says she is especially excited about its return.

She’s teaching three Radio classes and two sections of Broadcast Speech this semester to prepare students to go on air.

According to Armstrong, the Radio class is “more than just listening to music. You will learn skills in audio engineering, programming, public relations and more. It’s a serious class.”

But with help from alumni Ahmad Terrell and La’Chattie Smith, who have worked with WSHJ in the past, it is also very enjoyable. Terrell and Smith have been returning to SHS to help Armstrong get the station running again with student talent.

“I’m happy about the return of the legacy,” Armstrong said.

Eleventh grader Charda Williams says, “It’s a good class for people who would want a career in radio.”

Junior Trenell Reed sees the class as an opportunity to help the “quiet kids” open up more.

English teacher of over 20 years, Virna Hobbs-Calhoun says that working on WSHJ is “a great resource to help you decide if radio broadcasting is the career for you.”

So why is the class just now coming back after three long years?

There was no one on staff who was available and certified to teach. Armstrong was teaching English courses last year.

Armstrong encourages those who are interested in a career in broadcasting or would like to get a feel for it, to register for the course.

WSHJ looks to give students an interactive learning experience to prepare them to succeed in the real radio world. Those who just love listening to music or simply like supporting Southfield High can tune in to WSHJ 88.3-FM, all year-round.

Students who have successfully passed Speech and Broadcast may interview for a station position. After an interview process, members are selected. Students who attend any Southfield public high school are eligible.

Armstrong said WSHJ seeks to provide a hands-on learning experience in facets of radio, including the importance of teamwork.

Armstrong also said WSHJ aims to serve the community by providing positive and relevant content produced by students that is educational, informational and entertaining.