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Degrees and Certifications:

Mr. Matthew Hillis

Hi there! I'm Mr. Hillis, and I’m thrilled to be teaching Media Foundations here at James Clemens High School. With a background in audio/visual production, technology, and creative media, I bring a hands-on, real-world approach to the classroom. Before joining the Jet family, I worked in everything from digital marketing and voiceover work to live production and design. I’m passionate about helping students discover their creative voice whether behind a camera, in front of a mic, or through visual storytelling. When I’m not teaching, you might find me exploring tech tools, working on a woodworking project, or enjoying a walk outside. I believe learning should be engaging, practical, and loads of fun. 

 

I can’t wait to get started with this amazing group of students!

Media Foundations - First Day
Welcome to Media Foundations
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✈️ JETS

Welcome to Media Foundations

James Clemens High School

Mr. Matthew Hillis

Your 18-Week Creative Journey Begins!

Meet Your Teacher

Mr. Matthew Hillis

📧 rmhillis@madison.k12.al.us

💬 ParentSquare Messaging

🕐 Office Hours: TBD

Ready to guide you through an amazing media creation adventure!

What is Media Foundations?

A comprehensive introduction to modern media production and communication

18 Weeks
8 Major Topics
Possibilities

From photography to podcasting, design to digital citizenship!

What You'll Explore

📸
Photography
🎬
Video Production
🎨
Graphic Design
🎙️
Audio & Podcasting
🎭
Technical Theater
📱
Social Media
🧠
Media Literacy
⚖️
Ethics & Law

Your First Few Weeks

Week 1
Introduction to Media
Week 2
Ethics & Legal Basics
Week 3
Visual Design Principles
Week 4
Photography Basics
Week 5
Photo Editing
Week 6
Graphic Design

Each week builds on the last - by month 2, you'll be creating amazing projects!

How You'll Be Evaluated

70% Test Grades
30% Daily Grades

Test Grades: Projects, Skills Demos, Tests, Final Exam

Daily Grades: Participation, Exercises, Collaboration

Focus on creativity, effort, and growth!

Our Classroom Expectations

🤝 Respect
Treat classmates, equipment, and creative work with respect
💪 Responsibility
Take ownership of your learning and creative projects
🛡️ Safety
Follow equipment safety and digital citizenship guidelines
🎨 Creativity
Take creative risks while meeting project requirements

What You Need to Succeed

Required Materials

📓 Composition notebook or digital portfolio

💻 Access to school computers and media equipment

💾 SanDisk Extreme Pro SD card - 64GB preferred, 32GB minimum

Most Important

Curiosity, Creativity, and a Willingness to Learn!

Important Reminders

School Policies

Please refer to the Madison City Schools Code of Student Conduct and Madison City Schools policy manual concerning wireless communication devices.

Digital Citizenship: We'll learn to use technology ethically and safely

Accommodations: Please let me know early about any needed support

Ready to Soar?

✈️ JETS

Your Media Foundations adventure starts now!

Questions? rmhillis@madison.k12.al.us
Message me via: ParentSquare

"Where Opportunity Meets Inspiration"