Video production students at Waterbury Arts Magnet School are learning a unique skill.
“I've always wanted to do something in film, and this is a great, new opportunity,” junior Connor Marshall said.
On Thursday, Marshall was sitting in the director's chair recording the third episode of the school's new podcast, “The Source.” Anyone can listen to the podcast on Spotify or watch it on YouTube.
The latest episode is about a new program called the Student Success Agency, which provides tutoring, tutoring, and social and emotional support to Waterbury's 9th through 12th grade students.
Waterbury Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Verna Ruffin co-hosts the podcast with Belen Michelis, Director of Communications at Waterbury Arts Magnet School.
In the first episode of the podcast, we delve into the decisions behind the weather closures. The second focuses on another school in the Waterbury School District, Rotella Magnet School.
“This was created to help young people, parents and other adults talk about relevant topics so they can get the right information from the source,” Ruffin said.
It is also a task that requires everyone to do their part.
Students are behind the camera and in the control room before editing and releasing their podcasts for the school community. These skills are taught by video production teacher Justin Amenta.
“As far as production goes, the students are very excited. They made two last month and this is their first production this month,” Amenta said.
The students we spoke to said they enjoyed being a part of the process.
“I love it. This is like a dream of mine. It's fun,” Marshall said.
