The Student Technology Leadership Program (STLP) proudly hosted its 2026 Cinematography Studies Film Festival at the Dipson Amherst Theatre, celebrating the creativity, collaboration, and storytelling talents of student filmmakers across Buffalo Public Schools.
This year’s festival featured original student-produced films from six participating schools: #97 Harvey Austin, #156 Olmsted, #197 Math, Science, & Technology Preparatory School (MST), #207 Lafayette International, #212 Leonardo da Vinci High School, and #355 Buffalo Culinary High School.
The STLP Cinematography Studies pathway provides students with hands-on experiences in filmmaking, production, editing, storytelling, and digital media while helping them build leadership, communication, and technical skills that prepare them for future academic and career opportunities.
Throughout the school year, students worked collaboratively to write scripts, film scenes, edit footage, and produce professional-quality short films that were showcased during the festival. The event highlighted not only student creativity but also the dedication, perseverance, and teamwork required throughout the filmmaking process.
Congratulations to this year’s award winners:
Best Film: #156 Olmsted
Best Cast Performance: #355 Buffalo Culinary
Best Cinematography: #97 Harvey Austin
Excellence in Editing: #212 da Vinci
Audience Choice Award: #197 MST
Producer of the Year: Mike Fabozzi
The festival also recognized the newest addition to the Cinematography Studies pathway, Team #198, who attended this year’s event as emerging filmmakers in the program. Team #198 earned their place in the pathway after participating and winning the STLP Six-Hour Short competition, demonstrating exceptional creativity, collaboration, and filmmaking potential.
The 2026 Film Festival was a powerful celebration of student voice, artistic expression, and the continued growth of the STLP Cinematography Studies pathway. We are incredibly proud of all participating students and staff for another successful and inspiring year.
View all films.
