(Photo Credit: Maurice Mercado, City of Yonkers)
Providing Students with Pathways to Careers in Film, Television, and Media.
YONKERS, NY (September 27, 2024) – Yonkers Public Schools is proud to announce the opening of the Robert Halmi Sr. Academy of Film and Television, a groundbreaking new academy that will provide students with the skills and hands-on experience necessary for careers in film, television, and the broader media industry. Named in honor of legendary producer Robert Halmi Sr., the academy is the latest addition to the district’s specialized educational offerings, demonstrating a continued commitment to fostering innovation and career readiness among Yonkers students.
Dr. Rosalba Corrado Del Vecchio, President of the Yonkers Board of Education, emphasized the significance of this new school, stating, “The opening of the Robert Halmi Sr. Academy marks an exciting new chapter for Yonkers Public Schools. Through this innovative CTE program, we are offering students unmatched opportunities to gain the skills and experience they need to excel in the creative arts and media industries. This collaboration exemplifies the strength of our community partnerships and our commitment to preparing students for bright futures.”
Superintendent of Schools Anibal Soler, Jr. highlighted the academy’s impact on Yonkers students: “The Robert Halmi Sr. Academy is more than just a school – it’s a pathway to unimaginable opportunities for our students. This new academy perfectly supports Mayor Spano’s bold vision of creating a ‘Hollywood on the Hudson,’ turning Yonkers into a film and media production hub. We are deeply grateful to Mayor Spano and Robert Halmi for their unwavering support in bringing this academy to life. Their commitment to providing students with unique, hands-on experiences while delivering a world-class education is a testament to the belief that Yonkers students deserve every opportunity to succeed in these emerging industries.”
The 100,000 square-foot campus, located at 463 Hawthorne Avenue, will provide state-of-the-art facilities for students. The academy’s curriculum, developed in collaboration with Great Point Studios, Syracuse University, New York University, and industry leaders such as IATSE (International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees), covers a wide range of fields including:
- Storytelling & Screenwriting
- Videography, Cinematography, & Stage Management
- Electric & Rigging
- Lighting & Design
- Set Construction & Design
- Animation
- Costume Design & Construction
- Directing for Film, TV, & Theatre
- Sound Design, Editing, & Recording
- Music Composition for Film, TV, & Theatre
- Acting, Dance & Choreography
- Hair, Make-Up, & Specialty Make-Up
This comprehensive curriculum will allow students to explore various aspects of the industry, giving them practical skills and experience to prepare for careers in media and the creative arts.
Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano also spoke about the importance of the academy, saying, “We excited for this next chapter for our City as we partner with Great Point Studios in our effort to provide more specialized educational opportunities for students. The collaboration between the City of Yonkers, Yonkers Public Schools, and Great Point Studios is a model for other urban districts on how to create pipelines from classrooms to careers. RHA is now home to a vibrant and diverse learning community where young people will get hands-on experience and prepare for the next phases of their educational journey.”
Robert Halmi, Founder and CEO of Great Point Studios, expressed his excitement about the academy, saying, “Through this academy, we are not only teaching students the technical skills of film and television; we are preparing the next generation of innovators in our industry. Naming this academy after my father is a tribute to his dedication to the arts and continues to carry forward his legacy.”
The Robert Halmi Sr. Academy is part of Yonkers Public Schools’ broader effort to expand Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs, offering students specialized pathways to college and career readiness.
For more information about the Robert Halmi Sr. Academy of Film and Television, visit: https://www.
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