First Draft Academy
The Media Lab
About The Media Lab
The Media Lab is a dynamic, new program based on the concept of Write on Sports and Write on Arts.
The curriculum will share the core principles of existing Write on Sports/Write on Arts programs, including student-centered projects, guest speakers, and individualized support from teachers using sports, arts, and other topics of interest.
For the culminating project, students will write the outline, construct the script, and generate a video or podcast focused on their selected topic.
This program is adaptable to fit within the scheduling framework for each participating school.
Currently, this program is offered in collaboration with Newark Public Schools and as part of Montclair State University’s Summer Literacy Lab.
Shannon Schmitt
Executive Director
shannon@firstdraftacademy.org
Media Lab
The Media Lab Details
Projects
Students choose a theme and identify a project, including a feature article, video, or podcast.
Mentorship
The small student-teacher ratio, allows for support and feedback on projects during scheduled small group or one-on-one meetings.
Guest Days
Guest athletes and journalists visit to speak about their profession and allow students to interview them directly, further developing their literacy and writing skills.
Showcase
Students present their final projects on the last day of the program to their peers, family, and friends. Their work is also shared online for a wider audience.
Media Lab
Summer Session at Montclair State University
The media lab summer session at Montclair University runs in collaboration with Red Hawk Summer Labs 2026.
Dates
Media Lab runs on Fridays only
7/10, 7/17, 7/24, 7/31
Great futures start here: YOU can make a difference!
First Draft Academy works with under-resourced communities and school districts, focusing on middle school students, to improve their literacy skills by tapping into their passion – sports, the arts or whatever makes them tick!