A Feature Documentary Film About NYC High School Application

Hi, I'm Magico Nakamura, a filmmaker/videographer.

I went through the New York City public high school application process for my child in 8th grade, and I found it to be quite confusing and filled with questions.

Initially, I thought it was because I grew up in Japan and did not understand the school system well here in the US or NYC, but when I looked at the families around me, I found that they were all in the same challenges.

The admissions process for public high schools in New York City is incredibly complex, and I've learned that gathering accurate information is crucial, along with knowing how to verify it quickly.

Unfortunately, the New York City Department of Education (NYCDOE) does not provide a platform for real-time resources for families to get timely answers and updates. As a result, parents often rely on community resources, like “Applying High School in NYC” on Facebook groups, where experienced parents share information voluntarily.

I know it’s important for parents to communicate and share insights, but there is a significant gap in the current process that these volunteers are trying to fill.

Is this situation really ok?

What is the DOE's purpose in making the process so ambiguous?

Why do they use random lottery numbers to assign the students to high school?

Are all families fairly accessible to the information?

Through the struggle with this process of five families from diverse backgrounds in New York, I aim to explore these questions, highlight the issues, and suggest areas for improvement and successful aspects of New York City's distinct high school admissions system.

But this is not a film to denounce the DOE.

It is a story about how we as a family can find a way to work together to create the ideal public high school envisioned by the NYCDOE.

If this concept speaks to you, I kindly ask for your support in bringing this film to life. Currently, I have no production costs since I'm funding it personally, so any financial assistance would mean a lot to us!

In the end of editing this film, I will send a message to the donors confirming whether or not your names will be included in the end credits.

And I’m planning to invite or share a preview screening exclusively for all donors once this film is completed!!!