Watsonville High School
Video Academy

The Video Academy at Watsonville High School was developed in 1989 in response to a need to increase literacy, achievement, self-esteem, graduation rates, and job placement in the Watsonville area. The Video Academy is co-sponsored by the Santa Cruz County ROP, as well as other local businesses and media producers. Students are selected after their 9th grade year, and preference is given to students who exhibit a disinterest in school.

Mentors are an important part of the Video Academy's approach. Mentors provide insights and information, but also serve as role models, both professionally and socially for the students. Mentors are asked to spend at least one hour per month with students. Students show their mentors the Media Academy, and mentors give tours of their work environment. Forms for becoming a mentor are available on the Video Academy's Web site.

John Burdick
Lead Teacher

Watsonville High School
250 Beach Street
Watsonville, CA 95076
408-724-1151
School Web site