On the Big Screen During Mayfield Graduation

Seniors Anthony Ramirez and Jacob Janes worked together as the brains behind "Mayfield Cares."

The DATA DS relationship with Mayfield College has been very rewarding. In April, Admissions Advisor Paul Kleinschmidt asked DATA students to write letters to local soldiers deployed overseas. Paul happened to pick up the letters on a day when students were showing and critiquing work in class.

After seeing a mockumentary created by Anthony Ramirez and Jacob Janes, Paul felt that their style would fit perfectly with an idea he had for the upcoming Mayfield graduation.

Anthony and Jacob recruited a crew of Digital Storytelling students to create a short film titled "Mayfield Cares." The film takes a look inside Mayfield College, all from the comedic, yet genuine perspective Paul originally saw in Anthony and Jacob's work.

On July 28, the 15 minute short film was shown to hundreds of people during the Mayfield graduation at Agua Caliente's The Show.

The Digital Storytelling crew was given VIP seating in a private box as they watched their work on screen in front of a massive crowd.

We look forward to many more creative and rewarding collaborations with Mayfield College in the future!

"Mayfield Cares" was shown on two massive screens located on either side of the main stage.
 

DATA DS Receives PSWIFT Scholarship Award

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Palm Springs Women in Film and Television (PSWIFT) generously donated a $1000 scholarship award to DATA Digital Storytelling based on the merits of student work and community service throughout the 2012-2013 school year.

This award will be used to provide students with supplies and resources to be successful in DATA. Community support is always greatly appreciated!

Sunnylands 2013

DATA DS students were able to partner with The Annenberg Foundation Trust at Sunnylands to document monthly "Family Day" events and activities sponsored by the Sunnylands Visitors Center and open free to the public beginning in January.

Three pieces of work created by DATA DS students will be used by Sunnylands as press materials. Check out the videos!

Chinese New Year

Sunnylands' Family Day on January 20, 2013 celebrated Chinese culture with dragon dancers, games, calligraphy, and more. Video produced by Fabiola Paredes, Iona Vasilie, Natalie Navarro, Sydney Siva, Jonathan Serna, and Austyn Moreno.

The Sunnylands Visitor's Center becomes the focus of Modernism Week as part of a celebration highlighting a style and movement closely tied to the Coachella Valley. Produced by Gabrielle Knight and Genevieve Knight.

The annual Ladybug Release at the Sunnylands Gardens on April 21, 2013.

As an added bonus, Sunnylands Deputy Director of Public Affairs, Mary Perry, showed her appreciation to DATA students by taking them on an exclusive private tour of the Annenberg Estate one week before President Obama and President Xi Jinping of the People's Republic of China visited the property. Students were able to interact with history and walk in the footsteps of world leaders.

Our partnership with Sunnylands has proven to be a a valuable experience for students. DATA DS students are able to take part in a wide range of events at a location unlike anywhere other in the world. We look forward to collaborating once again with Sunnylands for the 2014 Family Day Program!

DATA DS Short Film: Too Young to Die

Working in secret for 6 month, DATA DS seniors Natalie Navarro, Fabiola Paredes, Austin Veal, Joe Arzuaga, and Moises Murillo collaborated with Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD) to create a powerful and emotional short film.

"Too Young to Die" was planned, shot, and edited by DATA DS students from November through April. The project was created in complete secrecy to preserve the emotional impact during the premiere to the CCHS student body in May. The film was first shown to the CCHS student body, and has since been shown in a number of community and educational venues.

DATA DS students worked with students, parents, local law enforcement, hospitals, and local businesses to create a realistic and convincing short film showing the devastating effects of driving while intoxicated.

Too Young to Die

Short film for the 2013 "Every 15 Minutes" campaign at Cathedral City High School. Created in collaboration between DATA and SADD students.

DATA Junior Captures Teacher's Wedding

DATA student Jonathan Serna has always had a passion for filmmaking. PSUSD teacher Phyllis Otteson gave Jonathan the chance to take his skills outside of the classroom as the official videographer for her wedding.

The ceremony was simple, but the shoot was not.

Quickly moving storm clouds, fierce winds, and a last minute change of venue made this project a challenge for Jonathan. However, through careful planning and preparation helped him to create a touching and beautiful piece for a very unique wedding ceremony.

We appreciate Mrs. Otteson extending this learning opportunity to our program, and for looking to students within her district to capture such an important life event.

Wedding video of Mrs. Phyllis Otteson, teacher at Rio Vista Elementary. Created by DATA student Jonathan Serna.