“Don’t sleep on us,” says Jeanette Giles, a senior and seasoned Patterson High School Student Media Team member.
Jeanette is one of many students on the team making waves, not only on campus but also within their school community. The Patterson High School Student Media Team, known for its creative flair, technical skill, and keen sense of storytelling, has become a model for high school media programs.
The students have one focus: to create media content that connects people. The team began by filming a school club called Catalyst for Change to empower students who are addressing issues of racial tension, poor communication, and academic inequities. Later, the team’s big break came from the opportunity to host a video forum for students to speak on and grieve the passing of a Patterson student. Since then, the program has expanded to include digital photography, social media, music production, livestream video recording, and, soon to come, radio. 
Michael, another student in the program, says, “My most memorable moment was interviewing Sen. (Cory) McCray.”
“I want people to hear my voice and see the positive side”, says Yandel Polonia Pallero.
"I have a passion for taking photos,” says Breon, liaison for the media team and Patterson Press.
No matter the reason, the students spend countless hours after school to ensure their stories are told. They are not afraid to take risks and support each other.
So, outside of the students, who is the mastermind behind the media team? We like to think it’s biology teacher and program director Gary Antoine. Mr. Antoine leads with dedication and resourcefulness. Often, he is the team’s first critic and super fan. “I am invested in these kids and want to push for monetary gain for them,” says Mr. Antoine.
The Patterson High School Student Media Team handles everything, from live streaming the 2023-24 City Schools’ Winter graduation ceremony to supporting City Schools Police by utilizing camera drones for aerial support. 
As the school year continues, the Patterson High School Student Media Team looks forward to new projects, including a multicultural audiobook adaptation of William Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet.” So, whether making silly headless memes with a greenscreen or literally screaming their frustrations in song, the media team is a space for all students to find purpose, explore curiosities, and connect.