PS 32 students will make movies about their outdoor experiences at black hole hollow, and become the next wave of media-making leaders at PS 32.
experience nature & share the value through media making
This gathering will be sponsored by The Media Spot, an organization that has partnered with schools in New York City since 2001 to promote media literacy by helping students study and make media messages as part of their curriculum. TMS has collaborated with with PS 32, The Belmont School in the Bronx, NY for several years — most recently helping students teach others about their school garden, health and sustainability programs, and finding their voice as active citizens around issues they are studying, including climate change.
During this pilot retreat at Black Hole Hollow, students & family members, along with The Media Spot, and a teacher from PS 32 will camp, play, eat & learn in nature along with students from the surrounding area.
We will connect through hands-on experiences with local experts in agroforestry, permaculture, herbalism, foraging and gardening, and document the experience by recording and editing videos.
Our goals will include sharing the learning experience with PS 32 through documentary media, learning skills to become leaders in classroom media productions in the upcoming school year, and helping PS 32, The Media Spot, and Black Hole Hollow brainstorm and design a future student media making retreats!
FAQ
When is it happening?
Friday July 22 -Sunday July 24. Arrival and departure are flexible.
How much does it cost to apply?
Food, accommodations and programming are being sponsored by The Media Spot. Transportation is the only expense for participants.
What is being provided?
We are offering lodging, use of our space, and land access in exchange for your participation and willingness to help us plan for future retreats. Participants are responsible for their own transportation to and from Black Hole Hollow.
Are families welcome?
Yes, at least one parent must accompany each student involved this year.
Where is Black Hole Hollow and how do I get there?
We are located in southwestern Vermont, one mile from the NY border. The simplest way to get here is by car. This will also enable you to independently take care of your own groceries. The closest train station is Albany-Rensselaer Train Station. Bolt Bus also stops at the trains station. Lyft and Uber operate from the train station. It is typically around $60 to get here from Albany. It is also possible to rent a car from at the station.
Are the facilities accessible?
Please see the space page for accessibility details.
Will the program be documented?
YES! Students will learn to record video in nature, and will collaborate with each other, lead by The Media Spot, to create short videos that document the experience. Everyone involved will have a say in what gets included in the productions.
COVID-19 Policy
We are following all State and CDC guidelines as they shift and evolve and will pivot accordingly.
All event participants are asked to present proof of vaccination OR a negative PCR test taken within 48 hours of arrival.
Day visitors are asked to wear masks when inside at this time.
BLACK HOLE HOLLOW 