BENEFITS

OSA was conceived to expand opportunity in a city with substantial and entrenched inequities. We are committed to closing the technology gap by making technology accessible for all students, regardless of socioeconomic status. By providing industry-standard equipment and software at OSA, each student has access to essential learning tools, regardless of their family’s ability to purchase expensive equipment or reliable at-home internet access.

A technology refresh will benefit all OSA students in grades 6-12 as they will be able to rely on a network that does not lag or stop during the school day. However, for those students whose arts focus is reliant on streaming and tech tools, the technology refresh is even more vital. For them, an up-to-date, working network and relevant technology is essential. These subjects can not be taught effectively without a functioning network and working technology.

Media Arts students study film production and editing, photography, computer skills, and live event production, as well as foundational knowledge in media business practices. Students participate in select projects with upper level students, begin their digital portfolios, and have an opportunity to present their work in Digital Media exhibitions. In addition, students gain graphic design skills, including printing enterprise, art and copy preparation, image generation and assembly, production photography, graphic reproduction operations, printing, and digital production. Each spring, the Media Arts program hosts a Film Festival, with work from both middle and high school students showcased.

Media Arts students learn industry relevant digital art skills, including digital image creation and manipulation, photography, filmmaking, animation, digital graphic design, and media studies with an emphasis on career readiness and portfolio preparation. Students participate in solo and collaborative projects, develop their portfolios and reels, and submit their work to festivals and contests year-round. Media Arts students collaborate across emphasis areas with classes and projects in Audio Production and Engineering, Vocal Music, Theatre, and Visual Art. Media Art offers CTE (Career Technical Education) pathways in both graphic design and video production.

Visual Art and Audio Production and Engineering are also areas of our program that rely heavily on technology. In Visual Art, assignments range from traditional life drawing and painting, to sculpture, design and conceptual development. In Audio Production and Engineering, students learn how to record, edit and mix original songs, sound design, live sessions, and voice work in the studio and on the computer.