Current Projects

Here is the Upper Elementary students' Sustainable Gardening PSA:

Hal Benson, videographer and Montessori parent, brought the concept of "Public Service Announcement" to the students of the Upper Elementary, and they enthusiastically embraced the idea. Hal conducted a brainstorming session with the kids to come up with ideas for the first PSA, after explaining the difference between a "public service announcement" and a "commercial."

The first step was to come up with a goal or thesis for the production. The students agreed on the theme of sustainable gardening. The next step included finding three reasons or benefits to support their thesis (what's so good about sustainable gardening?). Their lively discussion then contributed facts and examples to support their reasons.

After clarifying their ideas, students came up with script and storyboard ideas, which were then honed by another parent/videographer, Karen Kahn. The students were videotaped in their own Montessori Elementary garden, and also at the Chico Community Gardens in October (finding vibrant gardens and harvestable vegetables was an interesting challenge as the weather cooled). Voice-over work was then recorded at the school, and the entire production was put together.

The 30-second spot is now airing on two local television stations, and the next project is being planned.

Earlier this school year our Upper Elementary students interviewed Seniors at a local Senior Living facility. You can read about their experiences here.