ACTvF: Your Path to a Film & TV Career
The Academy For Careers In Television And Film (ACTvF) offers a unique 6-year program, culminating in a high school diploma and an associate’s degree from CUNY. This early college model provides hands-on experience and seamless transition to higher education.
ACTvF boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including a film library, editing labs, sound stages, and professional equipment. Students also access workshops with props, wardrobe, and set design tools, fostering real-world skill development.
The curriculum covers all aspects of film production, from pre-production to post-production. Ninth and tenth graders explore various industry roles like directing, screenwriting, and cinematography. This allows them to choose a specialization by their sophomore year.
Juniors and seniors delve deeper into their chosen fields through intensive classes and in-depth projects. The flexible schedule accommodates after-hours work, allowing students to utilize school resources for filming and editing. This fosters creativity and collaboration.
Film studies extend beyond the classroom with field trips to production studios and filming on location. Students even operate the school’s non-profit production company, Next Step Pictures, gaining practical experience in film production and distribution.
An honors program for seniors offers independent projects and advanced coursework. While there are no accelerated classes in lower grades, teachers provide extra challenges and support for high-achieving students. All students study French and have access to Advanced Placement courses.
A unique math program allows strong juniors to serve as teaching assistants, reinforcing their skills before calculus in their senior year. Partnerships with LaGuardia Community College offer opportunities to earn college credit through free courses.
ACTvF fosters a relaxed and close-knit environment. Students and administrators interact informally, fostering collaboration. Teachers serve as four-year advisors, providing guidance on academics, personal development, and college admissions. Two social workers address student needs and assist teachers.
Beyond academics, ACTvF offers extracurricular activities, including PSAL sports, school publications, and clubs like the Gay-Straight Alliance. Many students participate in paid internships. With comprehensive support, nearly all students graduate on time and pursue higher education. ACTvF provides a comprehensive educational experience for aspiring filmmakers.
The modern, airy building near the East River offers stunning Manhattan skyline views. Sharing facilities with Hunter’s Point Community Middle School and the Riverview School fosters a diverse community. Specialized programs, like ICT and SETSS, cater to diverse learning needs, while dual-certified teachers provide instruction in French and English as a New Language. This ensures all students thrive.
