Today, digital media is found almost everywhere . . .
Fortunately, when Kamehameha Schools built the studio facilities in the basement of the Midkiff Learning Center in 1976, they had a glimpse of this future. High School students have the unique opportunity to learn in a full sized studio which rivals that of TV stations. They also have access to state of the art equipment and technology, yet the focus of the classes is teaching students the tools needed to share their unique stories and infuse value through the digital technology.
Video 1 is offered during Periods 2 & 7 and is taught by Mr. Mosher. It is the gateway to advanced level studies such as:
Studio Production (Period 5) allows students to learn more about lighting, set design, the green screen and working in a studio atmosphere. Students in this course produce Puka Mai Ka La – the daily morning news broadcast. This course is also available as an Independent Study. Please see Kumu Leah to make arrangements.
Video 2 (Period 4) is a class designed to give students greater access to cameras, equipment and editing tools. Students gain hands-on access to higher level cameras and equipment to learn about advanced techniques to enhance their video projects.
Video 3 (Period 4)allows experienced students to design their curriculum and encourages self-directed learning. Students may choose from internships in a professional setting, projects with community partners, or school related projects to enhance their learning.
All Advanced Level students also produce the daily broadcast, Puka Mai Ka La, to the entire campus.
Classes are taught by Kumu Leah Kihara & Mr. Christian Mosher, both Kamehameha and TV Productions alumnus.
After graduating from high school, Kumu Leah attended University of Southern California’s Film school. She has worked as an independent filmmaker in the local industry for the past 15 years as well as abroad in Singapore and Sri Lanka. Her passion is in telling the storie of Hawai’i through the eyes of the kanaka maoli, our indigenous people.
Mr. Mosher has a Film Productions and Aesthetics degree from UH-Manoa. While attending UH, he worked across the street at PBS Hawai’i where he gained valuable production experience in the studio and on location for 5 years. He went on to teach video at Kalaheo High School for the next 3 years. With these experiences, he offers both technical and instructional knowledge to the program.
The team is also supported by technical assistants, Clarissa Kenui (KS 2011), Tyler Short.