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Board approves release forms for student documentary produced by KT Studios
Summary
The board approved release documents allowing Elizabethton High School students and staff to participate in an audiovisual documentary project tied to the Murder 101 podcast; visiting filmmaker Stacy Lee described a consent-first approach and limited, scheduled filming with background checks.
The board approved release documents enabling Elizabethton High School students and staff to participate in an audiovisual program produced by KT Studios LLC related to the "Murder 101" student project.
Director Van Huss introduced Alex Campbell and Stacy Lee, a documentary filmmaker who has followed the class. Lee described a journalistic and ethical approach to the project, saying she begins with conversations and consent: "My job is very much ... more journalistic in nature... My process before cameras come in anywhere is often to talk to the students," she said.
Alex Campbell and other teachers described the podcast and student work that attracted international attention; Van Huss said release forms were crafted to protect students and the district if the project moves toward a documentary showing. The board approved the release documents by voice vote with no recorded opposition.
The filmmaker said she plans limited classroom visits, will obtain criminal-background checks and will work to ensure comfort and consent for students and parents. The board emphasized student protection and communication with families as the project proceeds.
What's next: The district will distribute release forms to involved students and parents; the filmmakers will coordinate schedules and follow Tennessee guidelines for background checks and consent.
