Stand Up "The Premier Of Year"
By London B
Grand Blanc, Michigan- On most occasions a gathering of adults and students on the campus of McGrath Elementary would most likely involve some sort of after school event, athletics, bake sales, or parent teacher conferences. Yet on May 26, 2015, the school and it's community gathered for a much different reason. A movie premier! For 6 weeks 35 elementary students, along with the Brandon Publishing staff, worked diligently to develop a short film masterpiece entitled 'Stand Up.' The short film focused on the ever growing issue of bullying. Students were able to give their perspective on what it looks like and how to solve it. Students wrote, directed, filmed, and acted in the project.
“This program was amazing. I got to work with kids I never talk to in school. I also got to see how bullying truly effects kids in my school and around the world. Plus I’m in a movie. - McGrath Student”
The short film is an output of the Brandon Publishing 'Create Program' established in 2010, but the focus is much larger than after school programming and events.
“As a former athlete I was always celebrated for my talents on the court. I regret not going after my true passions, writing & acting. I was ashamed because I didn’t feel supported. I’d hate to see youth miss out on their purpose because adults aren’t equipped to see how purposeful these types of events and programs are. So we created a way to produce and most importantly empower these young people into careers and dreams that before this program they may not have believed they could accomplish.
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The short film didn't disappoint and was previewed by over 70 community members in the library at McGrath Elementary. NBC News also felt the need to cover this amazing story broadening the range of awareness for youth and their message. Click this link to watch their coverage.
The short film 'Stand Up' is available for purchase at the BP Store. All proceeds go toward more incredible youth programs and events such as this one. Be sure to subscribe to our event post.
