May 12, 2025 — First-grade students at Clarkdale Elementary can now say they have released their first films. Mrs. Duffy's class embarked on a magical storytelling journey that blended creativity, collaboration, and technology. Inspired by their imaginations, the students first wrote a collection of original narrative stories with a touch of magic. These stories were then transformed into scripts, setting the stage for an unforgettable filmmaking experience.

"The entire process was a great real-world, authentic learning experience that truly engaged the students," Mrs. Duffy said about her creative storytellers. "It was inspiring to see their confidence grow, and overall, the project was received with pride and joy by them all!"

The first graders partnered with performing arts students from Pebblebrook High School. They received mentorship in acting, costume and set design, and prop creation. The high school students served as acting coaches and creative guides, helping the younger students bring their characters and stories to life. The first graders didn’t just write the scripts—they also took center stage as actors in their own short films.

"I was fortunate to work closely with Ms. Black and her talented drama seniors. Their involvement made a lasting impact on my students’ experience. It brought such an authentic, inspiring element to the project. And as a proud Pebblebrook alum myself, it was a full-circle moment for me personally," said Mrs. Duffy with a smile.

"Navigating the filmmaking experience with Mrs. Duffy's students began in Kindergarten with iMovie Class Job videos," explained Innovation Lab teacher Kaitlin Todaro. "Over the past two years, I have had the opportunity to work with the students in the Innovation Lab (The Nest) and witness their growth from needing guided help to being independent filmmakers."

To help promote their films, the students used Canva to design custom movie posters, integrating art and digital design into the project. They applied essential writing, speaking, listening, and technology standards throughout the process, making it an authentic, cross-curricular learning experience.

"They connected filmmaking to literacy by creating their own stories, practicing storytelling, and editing their film in Canva. I loved watching them gain confidence in their abilities as they brought their ideas to life on screen," said Mrs. Todaro happily.

The project culminated in a special red-carpet premiere at the Sewell Mill Library and Culture Center on May 7, where families and community members celebrated and enjoyed the debut screenings of these young filmmakers and their magical stories.

Each budding filmmaker received a 'Dale for their efforts, an award resembling a small Academy Award. The students will take them back to Clarkdale and personalize their 'Dale with their own flair and decorating talent.

"Their excitement and enthusiasm for the project was infectious, and this is a memory that I will cherish forever," concluded Mrs. Duffy about her 'Dale award-winning first graders.