Minarets High School Enhances Media Program with New Gear and Instructor

Minarets High School in Madera County, California, has revitalized its Minarets Media program with upgraded equipment and a new instructor, enhancing opportunities for student creativity and skill development. This initiative marks a significant shift for the program, which aims to prepare students for careers in media and film.

Innovative Projects and Awards

In a demonstration of the program’s renewed capabilities, senior Phillip Solis and his classmates produced a short film titled “Reverie.” The film, which explores a character’s journey through an altered mental landscape, was submitted to the Horror Fest, where it garnered six awards, including the prestigious Best Picture. Solis expressed enthusiasm about the program’s advancements, stating, “Beforehand, we had such a limited range. Now, we can dream even bigger.”

The upgraded facilities and resources, including new cameras and a drone, were made possible through a partnership with Horn Photo. This collaboration has provided students with access to top-of-the-line equipment, empowering them to explore their creative visions more fully.

A New Leadership Vision

The program’s transformation is further supported by the appointment of Matt Sconce as the new instructor. Sconce, who also teaches English, brings extensive experience as a writer and director, having created over 50 short films and four feature films. His most recent feature achieved notable success, reaching number nine on Amazon.

Sconce’s approach to Minarets Media is centered on practical learning and professional preparation. He emphasizes the importance of hands-on experience, saying, “Our point with Minarets Media is to prepare them for their future. They can walk right into the job field. Our motto basically is, ‘Go big, go pro, go now.’” Students learn essential filmmaking techniques, including the rule of thirds and equipment usage, while also participating in competitions that foster teamwork and creativity.

In a move to further enhance the program’s impact, students in middle school will soon begin learning foundational skills, ensuring they are well-prepared to join Minarets Media when they reach high school. For students like Solis, the program has become a platform for collaboration and innovation. “Minarets Media is a place that anyone with at least an idea can come to make something amazing,” he stated.

The revitalized program at Minarets High School represents a commitment to nurturing the next generation of filmmakers and media professionals. With the combination of enhanced resources and dedicated instruction, students are poised to explore their creative potential and achieve significant accomplishments in their endeavors.