Film Society visits local schools

Alexander valley - The Alexander Valley Film Society has launched a series of educational film programs for students in Cloverdale, Geyserville and Healdsburg public schools. The program kicked off on March 23 in Geyserville with a workshop for 22 students.

“Educators throughout the region made it clear that there was a strong need for supplemental arts educational programming for students,” said Kathryn Hecht, executive director of the Film Society. “Together, we are working to provide impactful programs that help create a lasting appreciation for film, as well as fun opportunities to expand and enrich world views.”

Pixar animator Adam Burke has started by teaching animation workshops to students at Cloverdale, Geyserville, and Healdsburg high schools.

Future programs will include documentary filmmaking workshops with Bay Area filmmakers, an annual student film competition in concert with the Alexander Valley Film Festival in October, and special screenings followed by Q&As with filmmakers or subject area experts.

“We understand the importance of educational programs in the arts,” said Jason Weiss, co-CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Sonoma County. “Youth succeed when they are challenged to let their creativity shine, and they learn so much more when educational programs are fun and engaging. The Film Society programs promise to give young people this opportunity.”

For more information, visit avfilmsociety.org.

- Deborah Rust