About KCAT
KCAT is the public access television station serving the communities of Los Gatos and Monte Sereno, California. We are seen via Comcast Cable on Channel 15. KCAT is a nonprofit organization, and does not air advertising. KCAT's programming can be seen on more than 10,000 cable households in Los Gatos & Monte Sereno.
Educational Opportunities
Since its inception, KCAT has provided valuable video production training to hundreds of Los Gatos High School students and other members of the community. In addition, KCAT provides video production training for community groups and individuals. Some organizations that have taken advantage of our training and production opportunities in the past include the YMCA, The Los Gatos Police Department, and A Place For Teens. KCAT facilities are also available to community groups that wish to produce programming to be aired on KCAT and other community access stations.
Productions
KCAT, as well as its students and volunteers, produces original television programs. Many of these programs target the specific needs of the Los Gatos/Monte Sereno community. Examples include Los Gatos High School events, coverage of the annual Los Gatos Children's Christmas Parade, and Talk Of The Town, our weekly show focusing on the people and issues that have an impact on Los Gatos. In addition, KCAT provides both live and taped coverage of meetings of the Los Gatos Town Council.
Programming
KCAT is on the air 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Each week we air a wide variety of public access programming to members of the community. Topics include programs for seniors, cooking, nutrition, political discussions, and art and dance. We broadcast programs that address issues of concern to the disabled community, local youth, and tips on buying and selling real estate. In addition, we air educational programs from the Annenberg Channel designed for lifelong learning, and the popular Classic Arts Showcase, a noncommercial arts network featuring highly creative and eclectic music videos of classical music, ballet, and other performances.
KCAT As a Community Resource
Besides educational opportunities, KCAT provides a number of services to the community. Our popular Community Message Board – which is on the air over 40 hours each week – provides publicity for local nonprofit organizations, schools, and governmental organizations. KCAT does not charge community organizations for this service. Also, we air programs that meet the needs of various underserved audiences, including senior citizens, youth, and people with disabilities. And, we provide programs celebrating arts and culture, and the history of our community.
KCAT Governance and Administration
The KCAT Board of Directors consists of nine members of the community, three of whom are selected to represent specific local agencies: the Town of Los Gatos, The Los Gatos Union School District, and the Los Gatos-Saratoga High School District. Other members are selected from the community at large. In addition, the station has a small part-time staff that includes a Station Manager, Community Relations Manager, Chief Engineer, and Production Manager.
KCAT Funding
KCAT's funding is derived from a number of sources, including an annual grant from the Town of Los Gatos. The Los Gatos-Saratoga High School District provides our building. We also receive funding through a contract with the Town to provide production services related to the cablecast of Town Council meetings, and we generate income through the sales of videotapes of such popular productions as the Los Gatos High School graduation ceremony and the annual Children’s Christmas Parade. We welcome donations from supporters in the community. Although we do not air commercial advertising or infomercials, we do accept PBS-style underwriting which can air before and after programs. No KCAT programming is ever interrupted by commercial material. We welcome inquiries from individuals and businesses that wish to support our efforts.
Toward The Future
There are many exciting opportunities in the field of electronic communication. KCAT continues to evolve by constantly exploring opportunities to upgrade our facilities and programming. The Information Age requires well-trained individuals who understand the art as well as the technology involved in the production of compelling television programs. It also offers wonderful opportunities for the community to grow, learn, and connect through media. KCAT strives to provide that media access to members of our local community.