CTC Career Talk
September 2026
Israel Acheampong
Diego Galicia Orellana
Cassandra "Cassie" Ruano
Cheyenne Thompson
Joseph Da Costa
Logan Reynard
Frederick Advanced Audio & Video Students Take on the Frederick 72 Film Fest
Several Advanced Audio & Video Production students recently stepped outside the classroom and into the fast-paced world of independent filmmaking by participating in the Frederick 72 Film Fest. The 72-hour filmmaking challenge provided students with a unique opportunity to experience what it is like to create a short film under a tight deadline. From developing an idea and writing a story to filming, recording audio, directing, and editing, students were challenged to put their production skills to work from start to finish.
Unlike a traditional classroom project, the Frederick 72 Film Fest required students to work quickly, creatively, and collaboratively. With a limited amount of time to complete their projects, students had to make decisions about story, locations, camera shots, performances, sound, and editing while working toward a firm deadline. For CTC students, the experience demonstrated that successful filmmaking requires much more than knowing how to operate a camera. The festival also gave students an opportunity to see how their classroom skills translate into the professional world. Techniques such as shot composition, camera movement, lighting, sound recording, storytelling, and editing became essential tools as students worked to turn their ideas into completed films.
One of the biggest challenges was learning to adapt when things didn't go exactly as planned. Equipment issues, changing locations, scheduling conflicts, and unexpected production problems are all part of filmmaking. The 72-hour format encouraged students to think on their feet and find creative solutions. Participating in the festival also allowed students to become part of Frederick's growing film and creative community. They had the opportunity to see the work of other filmmakers, experience a local film event, and understand the many career opportunities available in the media production industry.
The Frederick 72 Film Fest is a perfect example of how career and technical education connects classroom learning with authentic industry experiences. Rather than simply learning about filmmaking, students were able to make a film, meet a deadline, and experience the excitement and challenges of working as a production team.
🚨Alum Alert 🚨
Hi, I’m Makayla! I had the pleasure to be a part of Mrs. Howard’s first cohort of Dental Assisting. CTC was the best decision I have ever made. It gave me people to lean on, countless opportunities and the chance to get a headstart on my future career goals. I started the program my sophomore year of high school, not knowing the impact it would have on me. I jumped in head-first and loved everything about it. I was learning everything from anatomy, to how to take an impression to how to be professional in an office. In such a short amount of time, I learned everything I needed to know to succeed. I looked forward to class everyday because there was always something new and exciting to learn. I used all the information I learned to gain my certifications and apply them to the real world. I worked as an intern at Frederick Pediatric Dental Associates and worked there over the summer as well. CTC has shaped who I am today and I wouldn't be where I am without it. I am currently a student at Clemson University, majoring in Biological Sciences on the pre-dental track. I am planning to attend The Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston to become a dentist and specialize in orthodontics. I am forever in debt to CTC and Mrs. Howard for the amazing opportunities it has given me.
Are you proficient in more than one language?
If so, have you heard of the Seal of Biliteracy?
The Maryland Seal of Biliteracy is an award given by FCPS (and other participating school systems) that recognizes a student’s high level of proficiency in listening, speaking, reading and writing in one or more languages other than English.
Who is eligible to receive the Seal of Bilteracy?
Any high school student who demonstrates proficiency in one or more languages in addition to English. This includes multilingual learners and any student who has acquired, or is acquiring a world language at school, home, or in the community.
Why should you earn the Seal of Biliteracy?
It can boost your resume, demonstrate your bilingual skills to potential employers and to enhance your college applications.
How do you earn the Seal?
You have to show proficiency in English (MCAP ELA) and another language. To show your proficiency in another language, you must pass the Avant Language Proficiency Test. This is an adaptive test that assesses your skills in reading, writing, speaking and listening. You can meet the Seal requirements before senior year, but you won’t get the official award until senior year. You must meet the English and Heritage Language requirement within two years of each other.
Who can I talk to about the Seal of Biliteracy?
You can talk to your home school counselor. If you are a Multilingual Learner (ML), reach out to Ms. Desimon at CTC.
