Actor Edward James Olmos to Attend Madison Elementary School Mural Dedication, Visit Fourth Grade Film Class

Edward James Olmos. – Courtesy Photo

Academy Award®-nominated actor Edward James Olmos will visit Madison Elementary School on Tuesday, March 22, 2016 to celebrate the dedication of the school’s new mural. He will be joined by Pasadena Unified School District (PUSD) Superintendent Brian McDonald, Ed.D., Board of Education members, students, parents, teachers, and staff.

Olmos will also visit students in a fourth grade class who are participating in the year-long Latino Film Institute (LFI) Cinema Youth Project. The project-based learning program founded by Olmos provides a yearlong, immersive experience in the art of filmmaking that implements 21st century learning techniques in classrooms that support literacy, encourage creativity, and develop leadership skills amongst students. Madison fourth graders work with industry professionals to explore all areas of filmmaking, from developing ideas and writing scripts to production, editing and marketing. Students work in collaboration with their peers to develop short films under the guidance of their teacher and LFI Youth Cinema Project instructors. Students also participate in a variety of industry field trips to agencies, studios and production sets to learn more about professional career opportunities.

The mural, which depicts the soaring eagle that is Madison Elementary’s mascot and one of Olmos’ favorite quotes, will be dedicated at a student assembly.

Olmos has achieved extraordinary success as an actor, producer and humanitarian. The Tony, Emmy and Academy Award® Nominated actor is probably best known to young audiences for his work on the SYFY television series “Battlestar Galatica” as Admiral William Adama. In 1988, the actor was nominated for an Academy Award® and won the Golden Globe for his portrayal of Jaime Escalante in “Stand and Deliver.” He directed and starred in his first motion picture, “American Me,” in 1992.

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