The Global Kids Xpressions Program works with teens interested in understanding the role that digital media plays in their lives. The program combines film production skills and leadership development to empower the youth to become critical thinkers, media producers, and global citizens. Skills such as storyboarding, online research, filming and editing techniques are used by the teens to create original stories, and produce their own short documentary or Public Service Announcements (PSAs) to raise awareness on the global issues they identify.  

XPressions is currently held at two NYC high schools – The Edward A. Reynolds Westside High School and the Long Island City High School.  This unique after-school program offers promising artistic youth the opportunity to explore local and global issues and express their ideas using such forms of media as print, audio and film.   Over ten (and counting) PSAs and short narratives have been produced by teens in both schools.  Topics range from areas such as budget cuts, children’s rights, homophobia, teenage pregnancy, school violence, food justice, equal access to higher education, and so forth.

Workshops thus far have focused on exploring various forms of media and self-expression, understanding the media’s construction of reality, media ownership, film techniques, and audience positioning.  Students in the XPressions program are motivated to have their voices heard via various multimedia channels.  Click on the links below to see samples of their work.

Starting from September 2009 to June 2010, along with the Human Rights Activist and the Community Service Leadership Program, XPressions will be offered to students at the Long Island City High School.  XPressions meets every Thursday after-school from 3:15-5pm. The program is open to all students from 9th to 12th grade.   

Click here to check out our GKTelevision site on YouTube.



Below is a PSA video on teenage pregnancy:

Edward A. Reynolds Westside High School

Since September 2008, XPressions has been a successful after-school program, offering high school students a choice of Arts, English or Social Studies credit.  This program meets twice a week on Tuesdays and Thursdays and is open to students from 9th to 12th grade. 

Click here to view the Westside High School podcasting collection.

Below is a video on reflections from Westside High School students: