Pioneer PBS
1 Pioneer Drive, Granite Falls, MN 56241
120 W. Schlieman Ave., Appleton, MN 56208
1-800-726-3178
yourtv@pioneer.org
Pioneer PBS is an award-winning, viewer-supported public television station dedicated to sharing local stories of the region with the world. Since 1966, Pioneer has served its rural audience through a mix of local and national programs rich in cultural heritage, diversity and educational opportunities. Our local programs include:
Pioneer PBS is based in Granite Falls, Minnesota and operates transmitters in Western Minnesota: KWCM-Appleton (Channel 10) and KSMN-Worthington (Channel 20). Pioneer PBS is a member of PBS and is operated by the nonprofit West Central Minnesota Educational Television Company.
Mission Statement
Pioneer PBS fosters civil discourse and improved quality of life through thought-provoking and inspiring media productions that connect people to rural stories and shared values.
Vision Statement
Our vision is to be a forward-thinking media and technology leader whose viewers are engaged and inspired to advance rural values of cooperation, resilience and innovation.
Values
Pioneer PBS is committed to the values of:
Relevance
Localism
Family
Diversity and Inclusion
Equity
Forward-Thinking
Life-Long Learning
Independence
Quality
Our programming and services are focused on the needs of our viewers. We tell stories about our region and the richness of its people. We value family as a cornerstone of our work. We engage and tell the stories of the diverse rural region we serve. We believe in fairness and justice for all people. We aspire to provocative inspiration and technological innovation. We help viewers of all ages learn and grow. We strive to keep Pioneer PBS a balanced and independent media voice. We provide excellent programming of enduring value.
History
Incorporation documents for the West Central Minnesota Educational Television Company were filed in 1959 as part of a plan for a six-state educational television network to serve the Upper Midwest. After several years of fundraising, the company raised enough local, federal, state and foundation funds to erect a 500-foot tower. A repurposed schoolhouse was moved to the transmission site and on February 7, 1966, KWCM-TV broadcast its first educational program.
For more information, watch the Postcard's documentary, Pioneer: The First Fifty Years
