Academy for Careers in Television and Film: A Comprehensive Guide
The Academy For Careers In Television And Film (ACTvF) provides a unique pathway for students seeking careers in the entertainment industry. This specialized academy offers a rigorous six-year program, culminating in both a high school diploma and an associate’s degree from a City University of New York (CUNY) college. This innovative early college model allows students to seamlessly transition into higher education while gaining practical experience in their chosen field.
ACTvF boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including a comprehensive film library, cutting-edge editing labs, multiple sound stages, and professional-grade audio and visual equipment. Students also have access to workshops stocked with props, wardrobe, and specialized equipment for set design and construction. This hands-on approach allows aspiring filmmakers to develop their skills in a real-world environment.
The curriculum at ACTvF covers all aspects of film production, from pre-production planning and budgeting to post-production editing and sound mixing. Ninth and tenth graders participate in foundational courses exploring various industry roles, including directing, screenwriting, cinematography, set design, and costume design. This broad exposure enables students to identify their passions and choose a specialization by the end of their sophomore year.
Juniors and seniors delve deeper into their chosen specializations, participating in intensive afternoon classes and working on in-depth production projects. The flexible schedule allows students to seamlessly transition into after-hours work, utilizing the school’s resources to continue filming, editing, and refining their projects. This immersive experience fosters creativity and collaboration, preparing students for the demands of professional filmmaking.
Film studies at ACTvF extend beyond the classroom, with students taking field trips to production studios and filming throughout the neighborhood and along the picturesque riverfront. They even operate the school’s non-profit production company, Next Step Pictures, gaining invaluable practical experience in all aspects of film production and distribution.
An honors program for seniors provides opportunities for independent projects and advanced coursework, further enhancing their skills and portfolio. The academy also emphasizes academic rigor, ensuring students receive the necessary support to excel in their studies. While there are no accelerated classes in the lower grades, teachers provide extra challenges and individualized support for high-achieving students.
All students at ACTvF study French and have access to a range of Advanced Placement courses in the upper grades. A unique math program allows strong junior students to serve as teaching assistants, reinforcing their foundational skills before tackling calculus in their senior year. This innovative approach not only strengthens their own understanding but also provides valuable teaching experience. Furthermore, partnerships with LaGuardia Community College offer opportunities to earn college credit through free courses taught onsite or at the college campus.
The learning environment at ACTvF is characterized by a relaxed, friendly, and close-knit atmosphere. Students and administrators interact on a first-name basis, fostering a supportive and collaborative learning environment. Teachers maintain a manageable instructional load, allowing for individualized attention and mentorship. Each teacher serves as a four-year advisor to a small group of students, providing guidance on academic progress, personal development, and college admissions. Two full-time social workers further enhance the support system, addressing student needs and assisting teachers with the advisory process.
Beyond academics and filmmaking, ACTvF offers extracurricular activities, including PSAL sports teams, school publications, and student-run clubs like the Gay-Straight Alliance. Many students also participate in paid internships, gaining valuable professional experience while still in school. With comprehensive support from advisors and a dedicated college counselor, nearly all students graduate on time and pursue higher education. The Academy for Careers in Television and Film offers a unique and comprehensive educational experience for aspiring filmmakers.
The academy’s modern, airy building, located near the East River, provides stunning views of the Manhattan skyline. It shares facilities with Hunter’s Point Community Middle School and the Riverview School, fostering a diverse and inclusive educational community. Specialized programs, including ICT classes and SETSS, cater to students with diverse learning needs, while dual-certified teachers provide instruction in French and English as a New Language. This comprehensive approach ensures that all students have the opportunity to thrive in a supportive and enriching learning environment.
