Seniors in the video production program set up a special effect for the camera. Larissa Vita of Sanford is on the camera while Jay Coleman of Massabesic records the audio, Tobias Rand of Noble High acts and River Hassan from York High applies portable fog to Tobias’s hair to simulate smoke.
Photo: Max Lapointe
By Sam Bonsey, Sanford Schools Communications Coordinator
Behind professional cameras and editing software, students in Sanford Regional Technical Center’s Video Production program transform creative ideas into award-winning digital media—one frame at a time.
Instructor James Harmon, with over 20 years of independent film production experience, brings real-world expertise directly into the classroom. Beyond his work as a video contractor, he founded and directed a successful film festival for five years and has taught in Sanford for nearly 20 years.
That real-world experience shapes a classroom culture where students feel genuinely connected to their work and each other.
“My favorite part of Video Production is that it’s the only class I have where I feel really connected to the other students there beyond just sitting in the same room for a while,” said Jasper Sweet, a second-year student from Sanford High School. “We make some really cool stuff together, and it wouldn’t work if we didn’t bring all the creativity and ambition we have to the table.”
That creative energy is exactly what Harmon values most in his students. “I’ve learned that they’re an endless well of ideas, inspiration, and entertainment,” he said. “All I need to do is show them a few things, and they’re off to the races, surprising me with their creativity, determination, skills, and talent.”
Students learn essential roles in television, digital cinema, and audio production, working as individuals and in teams operating professional equipment and using industry-standard software to bring their ideas to life. The program prepares students for professional opportunities through the Maine Association of Broadcasters Video Production Certification. They can also earn college credits through Southern Maine Community College.
The program’s excellence was on full display at this spring’s SkillsUSA state conference. Of the 12 SRTC students who participated, six earned medals, creating award-winning TV ads, short films, audio broadcasts, and computer-generated animations. “I’m so proud of my current media students and graduates,” Harmon said. “Every student put their best foot forward.”
Harmon emphasized the broader lessons students take from the program. “Video production is an engaging, meaningful experience,” he explained. “Students get to see—and come to know—how every person on a team is essential, and how impactful their voice can be in a group. The teamwork, the give and take, and the compromises that they make in two years of video production help prepare these students for all of the interpersonal communication that will be important in their future.”
Winter Nodden, an SRTC second-year student from Kennebunk High, highlighted the program’s resources and career potential: “My favorite aspect of the program is the sheer aspect of creative opportunity and money that has been provided to us for this school. While we can’t have everything, Mr. Harmon has so much knowledge as a teacher and there are so many different jobs that could come from this class.”
The program extends beyond the classroom through successful internships with The Sanford Mainers and Seacoast Oldies, giving students real professional experience.
This is part of a series highlighting the career and technical education programs offered at Sanford Regional Technical Center.
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