Contemporary Video is a class that allows students to explore the world of film, from scriptwriting to editing. The class can be difficult for students, even more so without the proper equipment. Contemporary Video teacher Laura Stringer realized this problem and set out a plan of action to get the necessary funds for her class.
“I’ve never really taught this kind of class before, which in itself can be difficult, but not having the proper equipment doubles the challenge,” Stringer said.
She, along with the other film teachers in the Long Beach Unified School District sought out for a grant.
The Career for Technical Education (CTE) decided to give a state grant of a $200,000 range to the teachers. The changes within our school are already inaction, as room 804 received new computers on October 26.
“These are from the last millennium,” Stringer sang in pure excitement as she and her class carried out the outdated machines. Her wooden tables are the next to go, and she has plans for a new layout for her room for the following year.
New air conditioners and a possible field trip are expected to be in her possession by spring. By December, she plans to obtain new cameras, desks, and blackout curtains.
“We can practice filming some sort of show for the school, with the curtains,” Stringer said with a wide smile. “Maybe with news, maybe even with The High Life, anything really. I went back [to college] for my credential just for this class. I’m very excited.”
Contemporary video is a PARTS class, which offers students a chance to expose themselves to careers in film beyond college. The goal of the class is for the students to have a hands-on experience in filmmaking.
Although the class does have the new Mac computers installed and ready to use, the class itself is far from ready. Students are to use their own personal devices as there are not any cameras. Any editing is to be on hold until the spring.
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