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Sacramento, CA

Voices in Focus: A Studio for Empowerment and Expression

Grant Amount

$4,700

Year Awarded

2025-2026

Project Coordinator

Tyler Pierce

Grant Type

Individual

Local Association

San Juan Teachers Association

Focus Area

Arts, Media, and Culture

About the Project

Voices in Focus is an inclusive media production studio that empowers students with special needs through hands-on experience in broadcast journalism and digital storytelling. The program provides a creative platform for students to build confidence, improve communication, and express themselves in meaningful ways. Through bi-monthly news broadcasts and weekly productions, students will explore roles such as anchor, reporter, camera operator, editor, scriptwriter, and stage manager—each adapted to their individual strengths and developmental goals. Along the way, they will develop essential life and vocational skills like teamwork, time management, digital literacy, and self-advocacy. By amplifying student voices and showcasing their talents, the project will foster school pride, strengthen community visibility, and create a more inclusive and celebratory school culture.

Meet the Project Coordinator

Tyler Pierce

My name is Tyler Pierce, and I teach adult transition students (ages 18–22) with developmental disabilities at Laurel Ruff Transition School in the San Juan Unified School District. I also serve as a coach and mentor, and I'm deeply involved in school-wide initiatives that promote student empowerment and real-world skills.The inspiration for this project came from my students’ creativity, resilience, and desire to be heard. “Voices in Focus” is a way to spotlight their talents while building communication, confidence, and digital storytelling skills that prepare them for life beyond the classroom.

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