Letter From Montana Gear Up

July 14th, 2014

National Enowment of the Arts Grant

To Whom it May Concern,

For the last two years, GEAR UP Montana has sponsored MAPS summer programs. Although they were only one week in length, as opposed to the 10 week program being proposed, we feel the results achieved for us would translate into a longer program.

MAPS Summer Program will compliment a student’s school studies with a rigorous and informative while engaging program. MAPS adjusts their learning outcomes and goals to meet the need of the students and their educational objectives. As an example, a few of their course goals for their Design Class are: learn technical skills to create high-level photography, design, and motion graphics, improved communication skills, learn various career paths in the digital media field and education opportunities. These goals align with Common Core’s standards by preparing students for college and career. The program is rigorous at it focuses on the core subjects of science, technology, engineering, and math.

A summer program will take the skills learned during the school year and apply them to hands-on activities via media arts education. Students will learn how to apply and practice their education to real-life activities that are centered on areas of interest. The program will enhance student’s understanding of media arts education by increasing their exposure to all levels of production. While engaging in the process students will utilize their knowledge of: mechanics (physics of motion), laws of light, basic camera operations, publishing and its laws, manipulation of multiple file types to ensure breadth and depth of exposure to industry standards, and algebra and geometry are used for basic layout and rules of thirds as well as golden ration.

Through our students opportunity to participate in a summer program hosted by MAPS many of them have reported an interest in continuing to participate in media arts opportunities. Student surveys reflect a positive experience. The district and MT GEAR UP has highlighted the short films made by the students at professional development opportunities.

Sincerely,

Jacque Boyd
School Grant Manager
Montana GEAR UP

2500 Broadway PO Box 203201 Helena, MT 59620-3201

GAINING EARLY AWARENESS & READINESS FOR UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAMS OFFICE OF THE COMMISSIONER OF HIGHER EDUCATION 2500 BROADWAY ◊ PO BOX 203201 ◊ HELENA, MONTANA 59620-3201 PHONE 406.444.0056 ◊ FAX 406.444.0425 ◊ WWW.GEARUP.MUS.EDU
(406) 444-0848
jaboyd@montana.edu