Oklahoma City Public Schools launches SCISSORTAIL STUDIOS alongside the Film Education Institute of Oklahoma
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The Film Education Institute of Oklahoma (FEIO) has partnered with Oklahoma City Public Schools (OKCPS) to develop a film production course for local high school students, SCISSORTAIL STUDIOS.
SCISSORTAIL STUDIOS will provide students with the opportunity to gain knowledge of, and experience in, one of Oklahoma City’s fastest-growing industries with a focus on the production process involved in making movies, television shows, documentaries, and other content.
“We are excited to help unlock new opportunities for our kids while helping Oklahoma strengthen its position in this fast-emerging industry,” OKCPS Superintendent, Dr. Sean McDaniel said.
Students at Northwest Classen High School and Frederick A. Douglass High School are the first to experience the program during the 2022-2023 school year.
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FEIO Executive Director, Austin Taylor.
The program consists of three main elements: a custom curriculum taught in conjunction by FEIO and OKCPS instructors, a dedicated film lab space at Douglass High School for students from across the district, and a mobile film lab that will support community events and activities, as well as visit additional OKCPS school sites.
Although the program’s film lab and soundstage are housed at Douglass High School, thanks to the school having enough space to permit it, the facilities will serve as a district-wide learning space destination.
“This opportunity to align FEIO’s mission with OKCPS and create a sustainable pipeline of future industry professionals in Oklahoma will be key to accelerating our state’s growth in this space,” FEIO Executive Director, Austin Taylor said.
“On behalf of the FEIO board, resource partners and growing supporter base, we applaud OKCPS leadership for their vision and passion to give students every opportunity possible.”
Oklahoma City Mayor, David Holt added, “Oklahoma City Public Schools and its partners deserve credit for bringing this opportunity to our city’s young people, and I’m excited to see where it leads.”
The pilot program first led to the production of the Douglass High School football team’s hype video, which presents a piece of what is possible through the program.
“It’s a major win any time we can introduce students to new job and career opportunities that ignite a passion for learning,” OKCPS Board Chair, Paula Lewis said.
Lewis also stated the program will, “go a long way toward keeping students engaged and excited about going to school.”
The SCISSORTAIL STUDIOS program is funded by ESSER, or Elementary Secondary School Emergency Relief, funds. Chamber member, Echo Investment Capital said they will also look for ways in which they, and other private funders, can help support the program.
OTHER OKC FILM INDUSTRY NEWS
Jill Simpson alongside Prairie Surf Media co-founders Matt Payne and Rachel Cannon.
The City of Oklahoma City recently established an official Office of Film and Creative Industries, alongside the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber. This office will support the city’s overall film industry, serving as a local “voice” and providing filmmakers with needed information and assistance.
The Oklahoma City Office of Film and Creative Industries will be led by Jill Simpson. Simpson previously worked as the director of the Oklahoma Film and Music Office.
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