Media teacher outlines rapid growth of media and drone program; students describe hands-on experience

Jamal Bransford, who runs the district’s media program, told the Westwood Heights Board that the program has grown rapidly since it began in 2023 — from one class to six and now including a middle-school media arts offering. Bransford said students learn video production, photography, podcasting and drone operation and that many of those skills are being used to produce live sports streams, documentaries and a student newsletter.

Students who appeared in the presentation said the program helped them develop technical and communication skills. "I really enjoy participating... I learned things like how a camera works, angles, the lighting," said Mariana Carter, a media senior. Other students described gaining confidence on camera and in directing and editing work.

Bransford described extracurricular opportunities including a varsity drone team that competes in three tournaments per year; he said the team averaged about 10 students annually and earned an award this year. The program also arranges field trips to community colleges and regional drone events and is pursuing certifications and college credit for students who complete multi-year pathways.

Board members asked whether students have opportunities for paid internships and whether content is shared publicly. Bransford said student work is posted on the district YouTube, Facebook and Instagram channels and that some students have been offered paid internships and college pathways.

Bransford said the program’s goals are to increase the quality of student productions, expand certifications (Adobe suite and safety certifications) and sustain the program’s offerings across middle and high school. The board received the presentation and did not take immediate action; Bransford said he would return with updates as the program moves toward certification and credit alignment.