For Kids, by Kids
Kids TV is an after-school and summer program for kids and teens grades 1st-8th. During Kids TV, students learn professional camera, lighting, film crew dynamics, producing, directing, and production techniques from local filmmakers as they work as a team to bring their story ideas to life. The students produce, film, direct, and star in their video projects.
With the advent of social media and the increase of accessible media devices, the generation of today is exposed to so many messages and technological devices that we believe it too difficult to find a safe space for them to create and just be kids and teens without outside cultural pressure and influence. In addition, more kids have access to record and post their ideas online, but there has been a noticeable decrease in training, technique, and structure that would enable these kids and teens to mature as proficient creatives. The goal of Kids TV is to provide a safe and creative space for young people to learn, grow, and share their creative voice while developing both technical and social skills with each other to mature into responsible creatives.
Kids TV began in 2014 with only a few after-school/ studio classes for kids ages 9 – 11 years old. Over the past 10 years, Kids TV has grown to have classes and camps to over 30 school sites for kids ages 6 – 15 years old. With a staff of 12 instructors, we annually develop hundreds of kids to become young responsible creatives. During Kids TV Filmmaking class, students learn professional camera, lighting, film crew dynamics, producing, directing, and production techniques from professional filmmakers as they work as a team to bring their story ideas to life. The students have the opportunity to produce, film, and star in their video projects.
With the advent of social media and the increase of accessible media devices, the generation of today is exposed to so many messages and technological devices that we believe it too difficult to find a safe space for them to create and just be kids and teens without outside cultural pressure and influence. In addition, more kids have access to record and post their ideas online, but there has been a noticeable decrease in training, technique, and structure that would enable these kids and teens to mature as proficient creatives. The goal of Kids TV is to provide a safe and creative space for young people to learn, grow, and share their creative voice while developing both technical and social skills with each other to mature into responsible creatives.
Kids TV began in 2014 with only a few after-school/ studio classes for kids ages 9 – 11 years old. Over the past 10 years, Kids TV has grown to have classes and camps to over 30 school sites for kids ages 6 – 15 years old. With a staff of 12 instructors, we annually develop hundreds of kids to become young responsible creatives. During Kids TV Filmmaking class, students learn professional camera, lighting, film crew dynamics, producing, directing, and production techniques from professional filmmakers as they work as a team to bring their story ideas to life. The students have the opportunity to produce, film, and star in their video projects.
THE KIDS TV ADMINISTRATION
Brandon Jolley (Program Director)
With a BA in Business from Howard University, Brandon Jolley began his career in the financial sector as an audit analyst with JP Morgan. Deciding to pursue his passion for filmmaking, he relocated back to Georgia to attend Georgia State University to obtain a Master’s in Digital Video & Film Production. After serving as a Producer’s Assistant at Tyler Perry Studios and beginning his own production company Moboc Productions, Brandon was hired by a Theatre Company in Atlanta to teach a filmmaking course at a studio, which would soon grow into Kids TV.
Tabby Lewis
(Program Administrator)
Hailing from Syracuse, New York, Tabby Lewis has a long history of client services and administration management ranging from the educational sector to the real estate industry. Originally working in administration for an after-school program in NY, Tabby’s passion for children has followed her to Atlanta. Being a mother of two, she understands that all kids are different and may need to be taught, encouraged, and developed in their special way.
Zoana Price
(Team Lead)
Zoana Price is an award-winning TV/film director. When she is not directing or producing media projects this Denver native can be found teaching line dance classes, writing scripts, or hosting an award-winning podcast for empty nesters.
Courtni Hill
(Team Lead)
Courtni graduated from Howard University with a Bachelor of Arts degree with a concentration in TV & Film. Since graduating she has written, directed, and produced independent projects while working in youth development. She loves working in art education because she loves giving kids the tools to unlock their creative self-expression.
KIDS TV STAFF
Caroline Mungo
(Senior Instructor)
This Atlanta native has over 15 years of both production and instructor experience, Caroline received her MFA from SCAD and also became one of their highly recognized film professors. Being an accomplished Writer and director, she has been sought after to be a consultant for various notable industry projects. Her acute skill as a cinematographer also enabled her to become a top-rated videographer for major broadcast affiliate Court TV.
Shelley Gruenberg
(Senior Instructor)
Ms. Gruenbery is a rising star and comedic phenom who has already had both regional and national touring. Even with our career breakthroughs, she still has a passion to teach and pour into the next generation.
Astin Sullivan
(Senior Instructor)
This local writer, director, and musician Astin “Rocks” Sullivan really rocks!!! She can be found shopping and debuting her award-winning comedic webseries to different film festivals, or you can frequently catch this songstress being the lead singer for her ATL indie rock/ eclectic soul band.
Zain Zaidi
(Instructor)
A local comedian and respected artist in the Atlanta entertainment scene. Hailing from Pakistan by way of Indianapolis, Zain not only brings a unique perspective due to his background and experience but also has comedic wit that shines when leading his kids into their creative projects.
Jahi Trotter
(Instructor)
This SCAD grad is both a talent in front and behind the camera. You may both see him producing a project for a film festival or being recognized as the best actor. Mr. Jas affectionately called by his class, also is insightful in helping kids develop their imagination which ultimately drives their stories.
Julianna Leopold
(Instructor)
Another award winning talent from SCAD, Julianna has already made a rockstar impression with our clients. After serving for only one semester, she has already been highly requested by both the schools and the kids.
Richard Kanneh
(Instructor)
Another award winning talent from SCAD, Julianna has already made a rockstar impression with our clients. After serving for only one semester, she has already been highly requested by both the schools and the kids.
Alicia “Ali” Martinez (Instructor)
The click of a camera is the heartbeat of Alicia “ Ali” Martinez. Both being a videographer and working photographer, Ali brings her technical eye to the classroom for Kids TV.