Stuck in Vermont: St. Albans Student Film Captures Life During the Pandemic

Tensions are running high as the coronavirus pandemic continues to rage across the country and Vermont students prepare to head back to school. A group of students called the BFA Speak Choir have been performing the keynote at the Maple Run Unified School District convocation for the past two years. This summer, instead of preparing a live performance, the group of 22 students from grades 6-12 decided to make a film. Their movie addresses issues that are important to young people today, such as the Black Lives Matter protests, climate change and, of course, COVID-19. They filmed while maintaining physical distance and wearing masks. This multidisciplinary piece includes original music and dance — and many teachers participated, as well.

Eva spoke to some of the young filmmakers at Bellows Free Academy in St. Albans about their movie and how they feel about returning to school.

Shooting date: 7/31/20

Music: Sophie Thompson, “6 Feet Apart” & Rondo Brothers, “Bunker”

Footage and photos courtesy: MRUSD, Dino Patsouris, Sydney Ward, Isabella Bonasera, Armand Messier & Mitch Craib