NEW YORK, NEW YORK, USA
100CAMERAS X CITY KNOLL MIDDLE SCHOOL
MADE POSSIBLE BY FRAMEBRIDGE
100cameras X City Knoll Middle School is a part of a 8 class course that is custom designed by 100cameras to equip passionate creatives with the tools to empower youth in a community they care about with the opportunity to learn how to process their stories and create change. Pictured here are 100cameras students during the course. This program was made possible by Framebridge.
ABOUT THE PROGRAM
100cameras X City Knoll Middle School took place in New York City, NY USA in partnership with City Knoll Middle School (CKMS), a public school that creates a space where all members of the community can learn from one another in a warm compassionate environment while building relationships. By bridging social and emotional needs with academic needs, CKMS collaborate to discover and share new ideas that deepen students’ knowledge and develop meaningful connections to the outside world. Their rigorous individualized instruction embraces various learning styles through providing multiple entry point which are customized to meet all students’ needs and honor their strengths. Additionally, through engaging in a class culture that fosters creativity and integrates technological skills, students become leaders who are comfortable with sharing their learning with others. CKMS recognizes how self-accountability can develop students’ individual growth, and they celebrate successes, no matter how big or small so each voice is heard.
“The 100cameras would be a very beneficial project to our small school community. Although we only have 130 students, over 80% of our students face economic hardships and/or live in poverty. Most of our students are black or Hispanic and approximately, 30% live in temporary housing. Additionally, only about 30% of our students achieve at grade level or above in reading and math, reflects Alana Jermanok, Assistant Principal. “However, our students are creative, energetic and interesting. They have a unique set of voices and do very well with creative projects. The purpose for hosting this program is for students to tell their story using today's circumstances as the backdrop. Documenting their story enables them to process their experiences and serve as a resource for other children...children in similar situations may recognize themselves in the students' work and feel like they're not alone, and perhaps, can learn from it.”
“This program helps strengthen the community through the sharing of experiences. By showcasing unique voices, and simultaneously sharing oneness, we can move towards healing during this challenging time.”
The mission of CKMS seeks to strengthen the individual's social and emotional well-being, and in turn, develop a stronger sense of community through shared experiences. Furthermore, the school believes in building on students' strengths to help them grow as people and leaders.
“I saw the students grow creatively, especially through their approach to the weekly photography assignments. For example, the students were tasked with taking a picture that “shows happiness.” Each student responded uniquely through close-ups, facial expressions, places and so forth. It was an enriching experience; they loved viewing one another’s work and discussing the different photography techniques they applied,” shared Q. Escobar, Visual Art Educator at City Knoll Middle School and 100cameras Program Teacher.
Youth Program Participant, Rafiul, shared, “I learned quite a lot. Like if I take a picture, then I have to know the meaning of the picture. I need to know why I took the picture, how I took the picture and everything else like that…Because everyone's lives matter. So if we are like another generation and we need to know what's happening, people should hear our stories and so we could change the world. My community is a good community. My classmates are always fun and trying to have fun and trying to find their path to success.”
“One student, who is shy and an English Language Learner, really shined during this project. He was drawn to contrast, specifically light and dark. It created such an interesting mood and was uniquely different to other students’ work. Both the students and I were so impressed with his work and gave him a lot of praise. I watched this student grow and gain more confidence as the project progressed.””
Thanks to DEPARTURES Magazine for partnering with 100cameras and City Knoll to uplift the perspectives of youth from this program. Check out the article published in print and online HERE, featuring images taken by program participants!
MEET THE STUDENTS
“I have never had an experience like this so I’m actually really excited. People will actually get to see my life and my point of view on things and learn new things about me. For example, people will be able to see things like my home, personal home hobbies, and my family and culture. ”
ABOUT THE PROGRAM LEADER
Q. Escobar. Visual Art educator 21 years, SVA graduate and Visual Artist. “I have worked with elementary students and now with intermediate school students. I have worked with various materials from traditional mediums to digital art. This experience teaching photography was great because it was a digital medium that students could use to develop their own unique voice and creative expression. I recommend this program to enhance any literacy program at your school,” reflects Escobar.
STUDENT IMAGE GALLERY
“I feel that me sharing my perspective on things and sharing my story could help people in ways. Through how the photos that I’m taking have meanings. I like taking photos of trees and flowers and fields because it symbolizes how much I love nature. I take pictures of food because I like to eat. ”
Follow us on social media to see images from the field as captured by the 100cameras X City Knoll team and the student photographers. Thank you to Framebridge for making this program possible!