Palm Springs, Calif. (April 16, 2024) – The Palm Springs International Film Society announces the expansion of its cinematic education initiatives, reaching students beyond Palm Springs and throughout the Coachella Valley. This expansion includes the continuation of both the renowned "Filmmaker in the Classroom" workshops and Youth Jury program, aimed at nurturing young talent and fostering a deeper appreciation for the cinematic arts.

Empowering the future of cinema, the "Filmmaker in the Classroom" workshops represent a unique opportunity for high school students to engage directly with industry professionals, unlocking the magic of storytelling and inspiring the next generation of filmmakers. Led by esteemed ShortFest alumni handpicked by the Festival's programming team, these workshops offer intimate discussions and invaluable insights into the world of cinema. This year, the PSIFS is honored to host Liam LoPinto, director of the Oscar-contending short film and 2023 Palm Springs International ShortFest Best of the Festival award winner, The Old Young Crow, as part of the workshop program.

Expanding horizons through the Youth Jury, students are also invited to participate in the exclusive program, where they will immerse themselves in diverse cinematic experiences. The program comprises two distinct jury groups: "Kids Choice" for students in elementary and middle school, as well as the "Young Cineastes" for students in high school. Through engaging discussions and collaborative deliberations, participants will develop critical thinking skills and articulate their perspectives while championing stories that resonate with their generation. For more information and to sign up, visit https://www.psfilmfest.org/education/local-juries.

"These initiatives reflect our unwavering commitment to cinematic education," said Festival Chairman Nachhattar Singh Chandi. “Our student reach has nearly doubled from 2023, and we hope that these are only the first steps in the Palm Springs International Film Society’s educational expansion efforts across the larger Coachella Valley.”

About the Palm Springs International Film Society 

The Palm Springs International Film Society is a 501(c)(3) charitable non-profit organization whose mission is to cultivate and promote the art and science of film through education and cross-cultural awareness. The Film Society produces the Palm Springs International Film Festival (PSIFF) and Film Awards every January and Palm Springs ShortFest in June. In addition tox curating the best in international cinema, PSIFF’s Film Awards has come to be known as the first stop on the campaign trail for the Academy Awards® and our Oscar®-qualifying ShortFest is the largest short film festival and market in North America. Our festivals, year-round member screenings and educational programs manifest our organization’s mission by nurturing and encouraging new filmmaking talent, honoring the great masters of world cinema, and expanding audience horizons. For more on the Palm Springs International Film Society and its festival events, please visit https://www.psfilmfest.org.

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