With the start of the 2022-2023 school year, students at Northwest Classen High School, Capitol Hill High School, and Frederick Douglass High School were the first to participate in a pilot program to introduce a Film Production course, in partnership with Film Education Institute of Oklahoma (FEIO). Branded Scissortail Studios, this program launches a commitment by the district to provide OKCPS students the opportunity to learn and experience the critical role film production plays in the making of movies, television shows, documentaries and other content.
“With each year of this new program, students will gain valuable knowledge and experience, positioning them for job and career opportunities in one of Oklahoma’s fastest growing business sectors. We are excited to help unlock new opportunities for our kids while helping Oklahoma strengthen its position in this fast-emerging industry.” Added McDaniel, “Our intent is to pilot the program at these two high schools and apply those learnings to a district-wide high school rollout in August 2023.”
-OKCPS Superintendent Dr. Sean McDaniel
A strategic partnership between OKCPS and FEIO, Scissortail Studios will consist of three core program elements.
1) Classroom Curriculum – A custom curriculum taught by a combination of OKCPS and FEIO instructors, with classroom film kits and industry-specific activities for hands-on learning,
2) Scissortail Studios Film Lab at Douglass High School – A dedicated space equipped with state-of-the-art industry equipment and resources, designed to provide a comprehensive film production experience for program participants from across the district.
3) Scissortail Studios Mobile Film Lab – Take learning to the streets! This mobile film lab will visit OKCPS school sites, support school events and participate in community activities – allowing students to experience firsthand what a job in film production might look like.
“FEIO was established in 2020 as a local nonprofit to help train and develop local film production personnel to help meet the demand for jobs brought to Oklahoma with each film production. This opportunity to align FEIO’s mission with OKCPS and create a sustainable pipeline of future industry professionals in Oklahoma will be key to accelerating our state’s growth in this space. On behalf of our FEIO board, resource partners and growing supporter base, we applaud OKCPS leadership for their vision and passion to give students every opportunity possible.”
– FEIO Executive Director Austin Taylor
For questions or more information about how you can support this program, please contact Dot Rhyne; dot@brandtalkers.com.