Video production student Kat Fernandez(11) has won the statewide Directing Change Competition for her video “Hurdles”. Fernandez was recognized in May during an awards ceremony in Sacremento that included screenings of the top three entries in each category.

The contest is part of statewide efforts to prevent suicide, reduce stigma and discrimination related to mental illness, and to promote the mental health and wellness of students.  Fernandez received first place for her video and commented that, “making this video really helped me understand the stigma and what is needed to recover.”

“Kat’s film really highlights the social, emotional, and medical challenges faced by many of our students.” said Superintendent Kirsten Vital

Kolby Oliver(11) received an honorable mention in this competition. On his video on depression: “I’ve always thought that always thought depression is a long dark road and  (in the video) expressed what I thought it would be like if I was driving down the road and going through depression.¨ Click here to see Kolby’s Video.

Kat received first out of a total of 420 submissions, representing 1,226 students, 112 high schools, and seven University of California campuses from 33 counties.

Schools associated with the winning film in each category in each region receives $250. Winning films are going to be featured on the Directing Change compilation DVD and on the program’s website.

¨It’s an important topic and a great cause so we (video production) like to participate every year.¨ said Mr.Devaney.