Board weighs a costly film/arts partnership and asks for student interest and partnership options

The board discussed a multi-option proposal to bring a Youth Cinema Project–style film and media program to the academy. Gary, who led the presentation, outlined three delivery models: a summer intensive (20 days, four hours per day), an after-school program, or a zero-period course before the school day.

The first-year, buy-and-run estimate for one high-school summer class (up to 30 students for 20 days) was approximately $107,000, which includes equipment purchase, program management and local staffing costs. Renting equipment lowered the initial cost (roughly $56,000 for the same summer class). A zero-period (two days per week) model raised the full-year operating estimate because program management extends beyond the short summer window.

Trustees and administrators discussed alternatives to large upfront purchases: partner with the Palmdale School District to borrow or share equipment, pursue dual-enrollment options with Antelope Valley College, pilot lower-cost after-school vendors using Prop. 28 funds, or run a summer pilot for one site. Administration reported it receives about $360,000 per year in Prop. 28 funds (subject to categorical-use rules and waivers), noted waivers for the previous two years loosened supply restrictions, and said future years’ restrictions could limit contractor spending.

Trustees asked administration to show students a short demonstration of the program, survey interest, and pursue partnership options; several trustees endorsed piloting a lower-cost after-school or summer program at middle school first rather than immediately purchasing a full YCP package. No procurement was approved at the May 12 meeting.