FAME Pathway Syllabus

Floyd County Schools College & Career Academy
Film, Arts, Media & Entertainment
Mr. Rick Williams | rickwilliams@floydboe.net

Course Description

The FAME (Film, Arts, Media & Entertainment) Pathway is a dynamic, project-based class that prepares students for creative careers in film, media production, and podcasting. Built around The FAME Formula—which emphasizes hands-on learning, real-world audiences, and storytelling—students will create professional-grade content while developing skills in video production, scriptwriting, podcasting, branding, social media marketing, and graphic design.

Signature Projects Include:

🎥 FCS Flash News – A fast-paced Instagram news show released every Friday

🎮 FAME or FAIL – A humorous game show series posted twice a week

🎙 The FAME Project Podcast – A student-run podcast released biweekly on YouTube

Students will learn to use industry-standard gear including mirrorless cameras, podcasting tools, Adobe Creative Cloud, and live production switchers, with a focus on technical skill, storytelling, and audience engagement.

Course Objectives

The FAME Pathway is guided by The FAME Formula—a mindset that blends creative industry standards with strong educational practices. Students grow as artists, creators, and collaborators through three core frameworks:

🔷 The Foundational Four – How We Learn

These principles shape how students succeed in the FAME environment:

Project-Based Learning – Hands-on, real-world assignments with purpose

Scaffolding – Step-by-step skill building from beginner to expert

Independent Learning – Taking ownership of time, tools, and tasks

Relationship-Building – Respect and teamwork with peers and mentors

🔶 The Four Pillars of FAME – What We Create

Every student works across four creative disciplines:

🎬 Filmmaking – Directing, editing, camera work, storytelling

🎙 Podcasting – Interviewing, scripting, audio engineering

🖌 Branding – Logos, design, visual identity, and messaging

📱 Social Media – Strategy, reels, vertical video, content calendars

🟢 The Four C’s of FAME – The Skills We Build

These values are the heart of the FAME experience:

Confidence – Believing in your voice, your vision, and your skills

Connection – Building relationships through storytelling and collaboration

Creativity – Thinking differently, solving problems, making something original

Community – Using your work to impact others and give back

By the end of the course, students will have developed a portfolio that showcases their growth, creativity, and readiness for careers or continued study in media, entertainment, and communication fields.

Course Content Overview

Students progress through a scaffolded curriculum:

Audio Visual Technology & Film I – Introduction to media concepts, camera basics, and storytelling

Audio Visual Technology & Film II – Advanced editing, script development, podcasting, and field production

Audio Visual Technology & Film III – Branding, advanced cinematography, directing, and team leadership

Broadcast Video Production – Managing weekly shows, Instagram strategies, and client-centered media work

Materials & Tools

Adobe Creative Suite (Premiere, Photoshop, Audition)

Rodecaster Pro II, condenser mics, podcast tools

Canon R6 mirrorless cameras

ATEM Mini Pro video switcher

Canva, Google Drive, studio lighting, drones

Grading Policy

Grades will be based on:

Category                       Weight       

Participation                    25%

Project Completion         30%

Timeliness of Work         20%

Portfolio & Final Edits     25%

🔔 Late assignments will receive a letter grade deduction unless prior arrangements are made.

Class Policies & Expectations

Students are expected to:

Arrive on time at class start and after breaks

Show respect to all peers and adults

Use equipment safely and only with permission

Maintain a creative and professional attitude

Meet publishing deadlines for ongoing productions

🚫 No food/drinks around cameras or podcast gear
🚫 No inappropriate content in films or podcasts (All content is subject to review by Mr. Williams and/or school administration.)
📹 All projects are subject to administrative review

Discipline & Behavior Consequences

Offense Level    -    Action Taken

1st Infraction    -   Verbal warning

2nd Infraction   -   Seat change or group reassignment

Repeated Behavior   -   Parent contact or office referral

Major/Continued Infractions.  -   ISS/OSS or loss of equipment privileges

Rubrics & Portfolios

Each major project will be assessed using a rubric that evaluates:

Creativity & originality, Technical execution, Collaboration & professionalism , Timeliness & completeness

📁 Students are required to maintain a digital portfolio of their best work throughout the year for showcasing and grading purposes.

Communication

If you have any questions or concerns throughout the year, contact:

Mr. Rick Williams
📧 rickwilliams@floydboe.net

Or Use ParentSquare

Final Note

This class is fast-paced, fun, and deeply rewarding—but it requires discipline, teamwork, and hustle. You’ll be creating content that reaches real audiences and could even launch your creative career. Get ready for an exciting year in FAME—where storytelling meets skill, and school gets cinematic.