Coppell High School audio/video production I teacher Kendra Carter was awarded Teacher of the Month in December. Carter became a teacher after being inspired by her parents, who were both educators, and working closely with education for many years. Carter began teaching at CHS this school year after 14 years of working as an educator. Carter has taught at Coppell Middle School West and Coppell Middle School East and as a Coppell ISD project based learning coach.

 This is Carter’s first year teaching audio/video Production I. audio/video I is the prerequisite class that is required for students to join KCBY-TV. 

Carter was informed about this job opening through CHS human growth and development teacher Raneta Ansley, who was transferring from CMSE to CHS. After hearing of this opportunity, Carter contacted CHS KCBY-TV adviser Irma Kennedy, who she had worked well with in the past. 

How did you feel when you found out you were awarded December Teacher of the Month?

I was down in the KCBY room when CHS Principal Laura Springer, the assistant principals, office staff and some of the counselors came in cheering and brought me a sign. It felt really good [to receive this award, especially] with being new to CHS this year and [COVID-19]. It’s hard to tell if you’re doing well. Being recognized was confirmation that everything is going to be alright. 

What is the focus of audio/video Production I?

The first half of the year we worked on basics such as how to conduct interviews, where to find story ideas and filming different shots and angles. Now, we’re wrapping up our first big video of the year, where the students [conducted an] interview and edited their videos. The next thing we’re going to do is work on segments with the hope that one of them will be chosen for the KCBY-TV show.

What is the most important aspect of audio/video Production I?

The class can help you with all your other classes as it helps with writing skills, confidence presenting and talking and interview skills. A lot of my learners have been pushed out of their comfort zones to try something new.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

I like getting to teach hands-on with editing, software and setting up cameras. I was an English major [at Texas Christian University], so the video side of [my job] is new to me. I love it because I’m learning along with the kids. I also like being able to draw out my English background through script writing. 

What is the biggest challenge you have faced with virtual learning?

The hardest part is teaching students online. If they don’t have access to a laptop at home, they have to do everything on their iPad, which isn’t compatible with [certain software]. It’s also challenging having to troubleshoot, as we have to do a lot of screen sharing.

How do you help students with the transition from audio/video Production I to KCBY-TV??

Mrs. Kennedy and I have one class period together, and it’s good to see how she runs the class so that I can try and run my class similarly for the students, so that changing from Level I to Level II isn’t a drastic change.

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