November 13, 2023

By Kelli Gile, Office of Community Resources 

WALNUT, CA--Walnut High School advanced video production students are creating a portfolio of digital marketing materials for Ron Hockwalt Academies (RHA).

The career technical education (CTE) class taught by Karen Alorro offers hands-on opportunities to a dozen budding cinematographers.

“My goal is to expose students to real-world experiences to help them prepare for a career in film or graphic design, not just with the technical skills but with a work ethic and etiquette that will be expected of them when they enter the work force or college,” Alorro said.

Two Trailblazing Production teams filmed around the continuation high school campus on November 8.

“RHA is basically our client and we see advanced video production as a job,” explained producer junior Audrey Nunez.

“Our crews are filming students and staff to create a documentary and short social media reels,” she said.

“A lot of people think of video production as just a hobby – but we’re out here doing this for real people and real clients,” said junior Deandra Meza.

The team is also working on a marketing campaign with a local restaurant.

“I feel like it helps us in meeting deadlines and keeping everything professional – and a lot of us want to do this in the future,” Meza said.

“And this is a great way to get experience!”

Video production students have been learning fundamentals of videography and photography including rule of thirds, basic camera angles, and making a documentary, Nunez shared.

A team of graphic designers from Alorro’s CTE class is designing print ads and branding collateral materials for Ron Hockwalt Academies.

“Most high school students don’t get to experience and find their passion as early as we are,” Meza added.

“We’re also earning internship hours for college!”

“When I first heard about this class I thought ‘I need to take it right now’!” said Nunez, who has a background in editing YouTube videos.

“Some of us began video production and photography fundamentals at Suzanne Middle School - but we’re still learning!” she said.

“We’re also being trained in leadership skills to help when we go to college and begin our careers,” said junior Stella Wu.

The class typically keeps busy filming Walnut High events and pep rallies for social media postings.

“It was really nice to be interviewed and represent Team Ron Hockwalt Academies,” said junior Karla Tovalin.

“We’re excited for this opportunity to share all the wonderful things happening on our campus!” shared RHA Principal Dr. Ron Thibodeaux.

After filming is complete, students will begin editing clips, adding music, and formatting the sound bites.

The team will also produce a one-minute documentary trailer for social media.

“It’s fun to work with a crew and other people – it’s like a real-world experience!” junior Ethan Alorro shared during the outdoor video shoot.

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