Minnesota Connections Academy Student Has Film Shown at Walker Art Center

MTS Minnesota Connections Academy tenth grader Katrina Frazey of St. Paul is passionate about film. Last summer, the teen made an autobiographical film about what it's like to have autism as part of the Digital Storytelling Initiative. Her film, titled Alien Brain, was entered in the annual youth media competition held by the Twin Cities Youth Media Network (TCYMN). TCYMN works to strengthen the field of youth media through supporting, sharing, and promoting the work of young filmmakers and adult mentors. A great honor, teens from across the network selected Katrina's film as Curator's Choice! Her film was recently shown at the Walker Art Center as part of a TCYMN showcase event featuring screenings of youth-made film/videos.

Stillwater's Emily Johnston, one of Katrina's Connections Academy teachers, was sure to attend. "It was terrific," said Johnston. "I'm so proud of Katrina. It was great to watch the Q&A session after the showing as well. Katrina was so confident and informative. I'm extremely proud of her."

Katrina's mom, Hillary, is thankful for the many opportunities the flexibility of Katrina's K-12 online public school is affording her daughter. In addition to film making, Katrina has now started as a crew member for Set It Up, a television show about and produced by teens. The show is made possible through the Saint Paul Neighborhood Network (SPNN), a non-profit community media center serving Saint Paul and the Twin Cities metro area. "I'm really loving it," said Katrina. "It's great for me to get hands on experience with media production. I really enjoy the time to be creative."

"Katrina is able to participate in Set It Up because of the great program at Connections Academy," said Hillary. "If she had to do a full day of a typical high school, there's no way she would have the energy left over for this great opportunity. Thanks to Connections, she can study at home where it's quiet, and then be ready to go interact with her peers and make some media in the afternoon! She's on her way to building a great portfolio to go along with her great high school education."

Enrollment for the 2016-17 school year at MTS Minnesota Connections Academy is now underway. Minnesota Connections Academy is a full-time virtual public school that K-12 students across the state of Minnesota attend from home. The accredited online program combines state-certified teachers, an award-winning curriculum, technology tools, engaging electives, and social experiences to create a supportive and successful online learning program for families and students who want an individualized approach to education. Minnesota Connections Academy currently serves more than 2,000 students across the state. As a public school, there is no tuition to attend. Parents and students interested in learning more are encouraged to attend an in-person or online information session. For a complete schedule with dates and locations, visit www.MinnesotaConnectionsAcademy.com/Events.