Capturing the Heart of Charter Oak Unified School District
At Portnoy Media, we know the power of a great story. When Charter Oak Unified School District (COUSD) approached us to capture the unique opportunities and vibrant community within their schools, we knew this was more than just a video project—it was an opportunity to inspire families and showcase why COUSD is the District of Choice.
A Vision to Inspire, Not Just Inform
COUSD needed more than a simple overview—they wanted a video series that would resonate deeply with families considering the district. Our mission was to highlight the district’s diversity, energy, and opportunity-rich environment, making it clear that Charter Oak is more than just a school district; it’s a place for students to thrive.
To bring this vision to life, we crafted three stories:
Intro Video: A quick-paced montage capturing students in choir, band, sports, drama, and more.
Corin & Lavar: Two high school athletes share how Charter Oak’s football program fostered their growth and sense of belonging.
Savannah: A middle school student reveals how the performing arts at COUSD helped her find her voice and community.
Nichole & Sons: A parent explains why COUSD’s offerings—like robotics, BioMed, and engineering—make it the perfect fit for her twin sons.
We produced a full-length video to complete the series that intertwined these voices into a powerful snapshot of COUSD’s community spirit.
The Portnoy Media Process: From Vision to Final Cut
Every project at Portnoy Media begins with listening. For COUSD, we took time to understand their values, story, and vision. We then designed a production plan that authentically captured their spirit and message.
Pre-Production: Collaborating with COUSD, we clarified goals, identified the right voices, and organized filming sessions across multiple schools and activities. We captured the full range of experiences, from sports fields to science labs, showcasing what COUSD offers. We also partnered with Myles Matsuno from Matsuno Media to help bring these stories to life.
Filming: Over several days, we documented candid moments and heartfelt interviews. From student performances to team practices, we focused on revealing each individual’s story and the depth of the COUSD community.
Post-Production: Our editing process emphasized narrative flow and dynamic pacing. The intro video featured quick cuts to capture the district’s energy, while each student and parent video held space for their unique stories. Every detail ensured that COUSD’s welcoming and growth-oriented atmosphere came through clearly.
The Final Product: A Powerful Story to Share
The District of Choice series captures the heart and community of COUSD—offering families a glimpse into the programs, friendships, and support students experience here. Each story, from Savannah’s love for performing arts to Corin and Lavar’s commitment to football, illustrates why Charter Oak is the right choice for many families.
We’re proud of how this series turned out and its role in helping COUSD connect with new families.
Is Your Story Ready to Be Told?
If you want to highlight your organization's unique spirit and connect authentically with your audience, Portnoy Media can help. We specialize in crafting videos beyond simple promotion—we create stories that inspire action.
📩 Contact me today to start your project, and let’s create something extraordinary together.
