EP114 Marshonn Calvin, AV Production Program Director at East High School in Memphis, Tennessee – TV Matters
A Champion for the Youth of Memphis, Tennessee
Marshonn Calvin, a dedicated educator and audio-video production Program Director at East High School in Memphis, Tennessee, is making waves in the world of youth Brodcast Journalism development. His passion for empowering young people, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds, is evident in the school’s video program, Mustang TV.
Marshonn’s exceptional work has been recognized by the Tennessee Association of Career and Technical Education (TACTE), which awarded him the post-secondary professional of the year award. His students’ media projects have also garnered attention, with the school’s Mustang TV program winning multiple People’s Tele Awards.
Calvin’s involvement with the NAACP ACT-SO for Filmmaking has also been instrumental in the program’s success. As the division chair for filmmaking, he has guided his students to multiple first, second, and third-place finishes in the competition.
“When I see those kids that come in class, whether they be white or black or whatever they may be, it’s my job to try to help and cater to every student that comes through that door,” Calvin says. His commitment to providing a supportive and inclusive learning environment is a cornerstone of his teaching philosophy.
Building a Foundation for Success
Marshonn’s journey to becoming a mentor and educator is inspiring. Growing up in a single-parent household in Chicago, he understands the challenges faced by many of his students. There are struggles at home, or their maybe behavioral or emotional issues that can’t be worked through in the classroom alone. But Marshonn also knows that when you show students the possibility of a brighter future, “they will do the work.”
Marshonn’s experience in the broadcast industry, including an internship at 30-Rockefeller Plaza and work at local news stations, gave him a unique perspective on the possibilities that students have if they just know where to look at with who they should connect. That’s why he’s always bringing in guest speakers and taking his classes on field trips. He wants to show students that their dreams are possible.
At East High School, Calvin has created a thriving audio-video production program that is more than just a class; it’s a platform for students to discover their potential and develop essential life skills. The program’s focus on storytelling and community engagement has led to remarkable achievements, including multiple Telly Awards.
Overcoming Challenges and Inspiring Change
One of the most striking aspects of Calvin’s work is his commitment to serving students from underserved communities. By providing them with opportunities to learn about film, television, and journalism, he’s guiding students to new possibilities in their lives.
“A lot of it has to do with them not having fathers in the home or not having a two-parent household or not having that support system at the house,” Calvin reflects. “When they come to your classroom, you may be their last hope.” His determination to be a positive influence in his students’ lives is evident in every aspect of his work.
Calvin’s dedication to his students is evident in his willingness to go the extra mile. When he first started at East High School, the program lacked resources. Undeterred, he brought in his own cameras and greenscreen for the students to work with. This determination paid off. As the program grew, a local news station, ABC24, donated their on-air news set to the school. Mr. Calvin’s students went from having almost nothing to a fully professional news set.
A Model for Other Educators
Marshonn’s story is a powerful reminder of the impact that one dedicated educator can have on building a broadcast program and on the lives of young people. His approach to teaching, which emphasizes mentorship, real-world experience, and community engagement, is a model that other educators can emulate.
“I love, you know, not just telling them and making empty promises. I love actually, you know, capitalizing on what we’re doing,” Calvin shares. His focus on action and results is inspiring and has had a profound impact on his students.
By creating opportunities for students to tell their own stories, Calvin is not only empowering individuals but also fostering a sense of community and belonging. His work is a testament to the belief that every young person deserves opportunity.
