Thrive Collective Media x PS/MS 279

Thrive Collective Media Presents:
The Case of Captain Manuel Rivera Jr. and the PS 279 W.I.N.G.S. Pledge
A Celebration of Student Storytelling and Creative Empowerment

Thrive Collective Media x PS/MS 279 is proud to debut two short films, The Case of Captain Manuel Rivera Jr. and The PS 279 W.I.N.G.S. Pledge, created entirely by PS/MS 279 5th grade scholars under the guidance of Thrive Collective Media teaching artists Eric Mason and Jasmine Sanchez. This creative journey was made possible by the generous support of Art A Catalyst for Change.

Over the course of 12 weeks, students met twice a week to learn the art of storytelling through film. Through this immersive experience, they engaged in reading, writing, researching, communicating, public speaking, storyboarding, storytelling, and acting—building not only academic skills, but also confidence and collaborative spirit.

“This was our 5th year that we have been able to creatively nurture our students and produce everlasting memories as artifacts that not only decorate and beautify our walls and spirits but have also allowed us to live the Thrive motto of creating hope and opportunity with fidelity and joy. With the beautiful collaboration and creative minds of both the Thrive artists, Eric Mason, Jasmine Sanchez and our evolving 5th grade students, we were able to enhance our school mission with bringing our W.I.N.G.S. pledge to life as well as take a deeper look at who our school was named after, Captain Manuel Rivera Jr.”
— Michele P. Coyle Hughes & PS/MS 279

These films not only celebrate the legacy of 279’s namesake, Captain Manuel Rivera Jr., but also bring to life 279’s core values encapsulated in the W.I.N.G.S. pledge: Work hard, Include others, Never give up, Go make a difference, Show respect.

Special thanks to Art A Catalyst for Change, teaching artists Eric Mason and Jasmine Sanchez, and the dedicated staff and students of PS/MS 279 for making this experience transformative and unforgettable.