PUSD Students Earn Statewide Recognition in California Academic Film Competition
PUSD students delivered an extraordinary performance in the 2026 California Academic Film Competition, earning multiple state honors and placing among the top student filmmakers in California. This year, PUSD submitted eight recognized films—more than any previous year and more than many of the top-ranked public high schools in Southern California.
Among the highest honors, “The Breaking Point” from Village Academy High School earned Third Place and the Team Pick in the Mental Health category and has advanced to the final round of statewide judging, placing the team among the Top 9 in California competing for the Grand Prize. This elite group will be celebrated at a red-carpet awards experience in Hollywood, representing the highest level of recognition in the competition. https://vimeo.com/1169050374
Filmmakers: Ritzel Nino, America Lopez, Ronny Castillo, Matthew Vasquez, and Julian Zarco
Advisor: T. Arthur Cottam
Also from Village Academy, “LOVE CAN’T BE DETAINED” earned Second Place statewide in the “Through the Lens of Culture” category, highlighting the powerful storytelling and creative voice of PUSD students. https://vimeo.com/1169685573
Filmmakers: Diego Alvarado, Carlos Alvarado, David Lua, and Josephine Martinez
Advisor: T. Arthur Cottam
In addition, Park West High School earned statewide recognition in the Suicide Prevention category for its impactful PSA, “The Turning Point,” further demonstrating the depth and range of student work across the district. https://vimeo.com/1169758479
Filmmakers: Kayla Barrios Bernal, Jennifer De La Cueva, Karina Gonzalez, and Benjamin Guzman-Vega
Advisor: Bridget Earl
Across all entries, PUSD students were recognized for emotionally compelling and socially impactful public service announcements, standing out among the best in California.
All videos:
(through the lens of boys honorable mention state) https://vimeo.com/1171114968
(hope and justice statewide honorable mention) https://vimeo.com/1169045319
(Honorable Mention Mental Health) https://vimeo.com/1168950514
(Honorable Mention suicide prevention) https://vimeo.com/1169663930
(Honorable mention suicide prevention) https://vimeo.com/1169709720
(State wide honorable mention substance )https://vimeo.com/1169635209