Schools have been recycling and composting for years, but two GEMS fourth graders firmly believe more needs to be done. Callie and Ella started by writing a letter to Principal Emery asking for an opportunity to spread the message about how students could increase recycling and cut waste to make a positive impact on the environment. After presenting to their peers in a full cafeteria, they were looking for another way to get their point across. Knowing the GEMS Innovation Lab has helped produce a number of student videos including a weekly news feature called GEMS TV Express, Mr. Emery shared the idea of creating a public service announcement with Mr. Hadd.
Ella and Callie began visiting the innovation lab weekly and working with Mr. Hadd. The production involved planning, scripting, interviewing, media creation, and editing. What emerged at the end was a short documentary. Interviews of school staff members, images, and other video clips support the main theme that everyone can make better choices and take action to improve the environment. The video has already been shown in classrooms and now we are sharing it with a wider audience.
Video is a powerful platform for student voice. How can you make a change? How can you take action?
Steve Emery is the Elementary Principal of Georgia Elementary Middle School. He is a regular contributor to THE FWSU STORY.
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