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John F. Kennedy High School unveiled its updated media studios and lab today that will be part of a new Communications Path at the school. The new pathway’s facilities, comprised of a TV studio, recording studio and design lab, are part of the continuing roll-out of the District’s High School Restructuring Plan. Boasting new video equipment, computer stations, lighting, and other updates, the studio is designed to provide students with the equipment necessary to prepare them for the real-world market. Board of Education Commissioner Eddie Gonzalez, Superintendent of Schools Eileen Shafer, Assistant Superintendent Cicely Warren, Principal of Instruction Jorge Osoria, and Pathway Associate Supervisor Carolina Acevedo spoke for the event opening. Television Production Teacher Richard Solis and Science Technology Teacher Lynn Hazelman were on hand to present the facilities.

The updates to the school’s media facilities began over a year ago as the COVID-19 restrictions were being lifted. A review of the equipment found that most of the available equipment was either non-functional or outdated. Utilizing money from ESSER II funding, the Communications Pathway now provides 5 FHD video cameras, 10 DSLRs, a steady cam system, 50 computers, portable switchers, multiple still cameras, recording equipment, and 3-D printers to the 125 students enrolled in five classes starting in the Fall. Additional plans are being made to allow students to stream sporting events from the recently renovated Tyrone Collins Gymnasium, which will be part of the coming Sports Communications Track and to develop a partnership with William Paterson University of New Jersey and Montclair State University. Additional plans are also being worked out that will allow students to intern in the broadcast booth at Hinchliffe Stadium.

Superintendent of Schools Eileen Shafer said, “that every effort has to be made to get them ready for graduation and beyond. As you can see here, Paterson Public Schools is doing just that.” She continues, “we had a great start to the High School Restructuring Plan and that there is so much more to come.”

Board of Education Commissioner Eddie Gonzalez thanked the Superintendent and her leadership team for supporting the school and said, “that the students are going to benefit from the new facilities.”

Assistant Superintendent Cicely Warren said, “the field of Communications is telling stories and shaping narratives and using every tool available to do so. It’s really important that the story of Paterson and the narratives are shaped by people that live in Paterson and our students. I’m really thrilled that they will have the highest quality tools that will enable them to do so.”

Principal of Instruction Jorge Osoria, “Today is a very exciting day for John F. Kennedy High School as we finally get to see the fruits of our labor.” He thanked the students and said, “I’m really looking forward to all of the great things that are going to come out of this program.”
Pathway Associate Supervisor Carolina Acevedo said, “As a Paterson native born and raised in the city, it makes me very happy to and proud to give back to the city and see us keep develop these pathways.”

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