Highlands High School is one of seven high schools across the country selected to participate in a first-time program to explore ways to bring animation into the classroom.<\/p>\n
Created by Terry Thoren, CEO of Wonder Media Studios and onetime producer of \u201cRugrats,\u201d the Teacher Academy for Animation in California hosted 12 educators this summer to learn more about Story Time, which is literacy-based technology focused on writing, creativity and collaboration. The program is expected to help students learn teamwork, communication and problem-solving.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt was quite possibly one of the most meaningful and inspiring professional development experiences of my career,\u201d said Michael Zeiler, co-chair of the district\u2019s music department.<\/p>\n
He will lead ninth graders, through the freshman seminar program, in creating an original animated TV series that features real-life high school situations, music and storytelling.<\/p>\n
Christine Wagner, who coordinates the school\u2019s Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports lessons, will use the same tools to develop lessons that promote positive school culture.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe are always looking for ways to give our students a genuine voice in shaping the school culture,\u201d Wagner said.<\/p>\n
\u201cThrough this partnership with Wonder Media, they will now have the unique opportunity to literally bring their visions and voices to life through animation, which is incredibly exciting.\u201d<\/p>\n
Teens will be educated on six topics:<\/p>\n
\u2022 Animation with purpose \u2014 students bring to life stories that inspire and empower.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Student mental health and wellness \u2014 encouraging self-expression, empathy and emotional resilience.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Creativity and storytelling \u2014 students explore their voices, imaginations and perspectives through storytelling.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Collaboration and leadership \u2014 working together to develop confidence, communication and leadership skills.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Workforce and career readiness \u2014 students gain exposure to real-world skills in animation, media production, technology and project management.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Project-based learning \u2014 hands-on projects allow students to connect classroom learning with real-life applications and impact.<\/p>\n
Thoren, CEO of Wonder Media Studios, has a long career in animation, with work connected to \u201cThe Simpsons,\u201d \u201cRugrats\u201d and \u201cRocket Power,\u201d among others.<\/p>\n
He has used his career to support mental health awareness, particularly for students. Through the Story Maker platform, Thoren partners with schools to help students create original animated films to help teens realize the power of creativity and teamwork.<\/p>\n