Central Film Academy
About CFA
The Central Film Academy combines a rigorous learning environment framed within producing highly skilled students ready for the film industry or film studies. Our unique learning community develops a student’s potential and ensures students are well equipped to meet the challenges of post-secondary education and film careers in the fastest growing industry in the state of Georgia. Graduates of CFA will be competitive applicants for both the film industry work force and post-secondary educational institutions.
CFA Mission
The Central Film Academy Mission
- To provide a course pathway that will prepare students as top tier candidates for employment in the film industry, and university studies.
- Cultivate highly trained professionals for the film industry, all within the framework of developing a competitive portfolio of work.
- Produce skilled and capable leaders, artisans, and technicians, who are creative, motivated, and prepared for the rigors of filmmaking.
Prospective Students
FAQ
What is the Central Film Academy?
CFA is a film focused four-year pathway to graduation for FCHS students. CFA provides an opportunity for students to share the high school experience with a cohort of interest in film, thus making a large school feel smaller.
Who can apply?
Currently, any rising 9th grade student can apply.
Are we currently allowing out of district applicants?
YES! we are now accepting out of district students. In addition to the CFA application, prospective students from other schools must submit the FCS Out of District Request Form.
How does a CFA students schedule differ from a normal high school course outlook?
CFA students take two pathway courses a year. Included in this is four years of Audio/Video Tech I, II & III, Visual Arts I, Acting I, Dramatic Writing, and a senior capstone project/work-based study.
What will I learn?
You will learn acting and filming principals. You will learn the techniques and standards of professionals in the film industry. You will learn to produce and perform in your own films. You will learn the ideals of professionalism, and industry expectations.
What does my pathway prepare me for?
You will gain your high school diploma and be able to apply to any College/University or enter straight into the film industry work force. It also develops a broad range of skills that transfer into all areas regardless.
Who is CFA designed for?
We are looking for any student that is a creative thinker. No previous art, film, or acting experience is required. Students will benefit through this creative pathway toward success in high school regardless of post-secondary plans.
When is the application deadline?
Application window is TBA.
How many students are accepted?
Our cohorts range from 20-30 students.
CFA Staff
Jason Hanline - AV Tech & Film
Although he was originally an English teacher, film and cinema has always been a passion of his. While attending the University of North Georgia, he took every film course they offered even though it may not have counted toward his major. His student film, Watershed Coyotes, got its own on campus screening and a writeup in the Gainesville Times. Now actively involved in the Georgia Film Academy and the Atlanta Film Society, he is always looking for new information and techniques to pass along to his students. His personal goal is to educate his students enough to send them directly onto a movie set when they graduate and be helpful and productive.
Albie McCann - Tech Theatre for Film, Ceramics, Visual Art
“Observation and the skilled use of tools, materials and techniques to create are the characteristics of an artist. The ability to impart knowledge, understanding and confidence to individuals are the characteristics of a teacher.” Mr. McCann’s intention as an art teacher is to act as a catalyst: to encourage, question, and discover through making…. Instilling a passion for continual learning and curiosity of through the arts. Mr. McCann received a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in sculpture from Penn State University and a Bachelor of Science in Art Education from the University of North Georgia.
Hope Stern - 10th Grade Lit/Writing for Film
I am happy to be a part of this growing pathway for film students. My college education has been all about film and broadcasting and led me to work as a production manager and producer for HBO, Turner Broadcasting, and Nielson. I am excited to share the knowledge I have ascertained through this profession I have been a part of for over twenty years.
Teaching called me as I rounded another decade and earned my second masters for English Education. I am currently in the process of earning another degree in professional writing with the hope that I can share this knowledge with my film students; joining my other colleagues in creating a new generation of story tellers and collaborators.
