WCDS Wins Second CenturyLink Grant for Campus Film Studio

WCDS will build on the successful launch of its film studio with a second $5,000 grant from CenturyLink.

This year, students got their feet wet making documentaries in AP U.S. History and producing an hour-long international news roundtable discussion for AP Comparative Government.  Next year, WCDS will expand use of existing film equipment to other classes.

CenturyLink Regional Operations Manager Marcus Hill (right) delivers grant award to WCDS film teacher Jeff Day.

“This second donation,” said grant applicant and WCDS teacher Jeff Day, “is intended to increase the capacity and professionalism of our studio by adding another camera, a stable of cinematic lenses, as well as the accessories that allow for professional movement and scene construction.”

Mr. Day will offer a film making class next year, where a small team of students will learn the basics of cinematography, directing, and producing by acting as the director on their own short film and crew for their classmates.  “There are many short film competitions out there.  We hope to enter a few next spring,” said Mr. Day.

Century Link’s generous grant will have an even greater impact when paired with another donation by Suzanne Corbett of Warrenton, parent of WCDS ’16 alumnus Aaron Corbett, covering the cost of a subscription to Master Class.  Through this on-line course, WCDS students will be able to tap into the expertise of Academy Award winning directors and actors as they teach their craft.  Said Head of School, Jessica Lindstrom, “We are looking forward to adding another way for our students to express their ideas and become content creators.”