CCSD Pathway Profile - Audio Video Technology and Film

This week’s CCSD Pathway Profile focuses on Audio/Video Technology and Film, which is offered at all six CCSD high schools.  CCSD offers 38 Career Pathway high school programs, which provide students with a wide selection of job exploration and preparation electives.  Through CCSD Pathway Profiles, we regularly share highlights with you from one of these programs … 

The next time you watch a movie or TV show, you could spot a Cherokee County School District graduate in the credits.

A growing number of alumni can be found working in the industry with a head-start on their experience gained through the Career Pathway program for Audio/Video Technology and Film.

The program is offered at all CCSD high schools, with Sequoyah High School’s program achieving prestigious industry certification.

Brad Mann, a 25-year educator, leads Sequoyah’s program and loves seeing his students succeed in the film industry. 

“This Pathway provides many avenues for students to pursue after graduation.  I have students pursuing bachelor’s degrees in film production, students currently working on movie sets, students working in the film and photography industry and as freelance videographers,” he said. 

The program, he noted, while an excellent preparation for careers in the industry, also provide valuable workplace “soft skills” for any career path.

“Career classes provide opportunities for students to experience real-world situations,” he said.

One of the program’s highlights of the year, he said, is the Cherokee County Film Festival, a collaboration between CCSD film teachers, the Cherokee County Office of Economic Development and local film industry professionals.

“This project allows students to write a script, film and direct their scenes, and edit their final productions,” he said.  “This countywide competition showcases the creativity and talent of many students.”

Senior Lauren Turnage said the program focused her career path on film and video production.

“Mr. Mann's class has really helped me because he has provided all of the resources and training I need to be successful.  Thanks to this, I have a big head start on my future career,” she said.  “I have been able to build good portfolio and could go straight into a well-paying job when I graduate if I choose to.” 

Within the Pathway, classes offered include: audio and video technology and film I, II and III; broadcast video production application.  Students can earn Adobe Premiere Pro industry certification.  They can compete in SkillsUSA state and national career skills programs and contests.

This Pathway prepares students for careers including, but not limited to: film director, production manager, film and video editor, videographer, audio/video technician, film production assistant, camera operator, audio visual engineer, audio technician, audio visual installation superintendent.

The average income range for careers in this Pathway in Georgia is $43,200 to $85,000.  Local and area employers for this Pathway include, but are not limited to: Trilith Studios, Tyler Perry Studios, Turner Studios, Blackhall Studios, Turner Broadcasting, Spots Film, Sports and Social Atlanta, Innovative Sight and Sound, Cable South Communications, AVI Systems, national television Atlanta affiliates and local television networks.

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