BY JOHN SNYDER
OF PASCACK PRESS
WOODCLIFF LAKE, N.J. —— The Woodcliff Lake Educational Foundation (WCLEF) tuned in, with a recent ribbon cutting ceremony, a sparkling new television studio and Digital Arts program at Woodcliff Middle School.
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The studio enjoys a complete, modern redesign of the original studio, which debuted in 1989, coincidentally the same year Tim Berners-Lee invented the World Wide Web, the first episode of “The Simpsons” aired, the first GPS satellite went into orbit and the Berlin Wall fell.
For the record, it’s also the birth year of “Harry Potter” star Daniel Radcliffe and singer Taylor Swift.
The students had been using three-quarter-inch magnetic VHS tapes and other obsolete equipment and needed an update to digital recording systems.
According to Kristy Herrington for WCLEF, the studio update includes state-of-the-art, high definition recording and video production equipment, for students who grew up with iPads, Pixar, and popular culture increasingly thrumming with social media.
“This will give students a total TV studio experience, from writing the scripts, choosing the right set designs, on-screen speaking/public speaking, video editing, and the entire TV production process,” Herrington told Pascack Press.
The ceremony was Oct. 20 at 9 a.m. at Woodcliff Middle School. The studio and digital art programs are fully funded by the Woodcliff Lake Educational Foundation and their sponsors.
As part of their coursework, students produce traditional television news and current affairs programs, which will include general and entertainment news, weather, and sports.
In addition, the students will produce a talk show called “WCMS: We Want You to Know.” Herrington explained the updates expose students to current trends and standards in broadcasting, communication, production, “and so much more.”
The introduction of 22 Microsoft Surface Pro 4 computers loaded with Adobe Photoshop into the art curriculum has allowed students in all grades to engage in “a contemporary artistic process ordinarily reserved for the collegiate level of education,” Herrington said.
Through the Surface’s stylus capabilities and its versatility as both a computer and tablet, students translate traditional techniques of art-making into a relevant and essential medium in today’s world.
“Working in the same program used by professional animators and graphic designers, all students become more aware of the artistic possibilities that exist,” Herrington said.
Sean McCabe, art teacher at the middle school, agreed.
“Students who did not see themselves as artists are more eager and able to explore their creative potential with a positive perspective when working in Photoshop,” he said.
A proud Robert Lombardy, principal of the school, said WMS continues to lead and innovate in an effort to provide its students with an unparalleled learning experience.
“Woodcliff Middle School and its partner the WCLEF remain committed to developing the thinkers, innovators, and leaders of tomorrow. With the collaboration of both teams the ceiling for our children’s success is limitless,” Lombardy said.
The Woodcliff Lake Educational Foundation, a 501(c)3, fully funded these projects with the support of its sponsors from the 2017 Run For Education and the Charity Golf Classic.
At the ceremony, WCLEF thanked its sponsors, including BMW, Eisai, Active Orthopedic, the Torrente Family, Riverside Oral Surgery, Hackensack University Medical Center at Pascack Valley, The Bristal, Valley Hospital, Oritani Charity Foundation, Kreiner Dental, Spinak Medical Eye Center, Rockland Bakery, Chestnut Ridge Pediatrics, the Spine and Health Center of Montvale, Excel Orthopedic, and signature sponsors.
WCLEF is a volunteer, non-profit organization dedicated to raising funds for the benefit of its public schools.
All donations go directly toward purchases aimed at improving the educational experience of the children in the district. For more information, visit wclef.com.
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