Joint project teaches photography to special needs students

By Austin Phillips (Contact) | Alabaster Reporter

Published Tuesday, May 12, 2009

The Thompson High School colors are black and red, but the halls were recently black and white with pictures from 18 special education students.

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Michael Oglesby shows off his picture that won him third place in the photography program contest.

The high school and the Alabaster Parks and Recreation Department teamed up to teach the students basic elements of photography.

Alicia Walters, senior/therapeutic manager for the Parks Department, said the program was just another way the schools and Parks Department are teaming up to think outside the box.

“It was another way of bringing in something different,” Walters said.

The students were each given a 35mm black and white disposable camera and were asked to take random pictures following the instructions.

Once the students had filled up their cameras, the film was developed and then the students were allowed to vote for their favorite pictures.

Stevie Eddy was awarded first place, Laura Smith second and Michael Oglesby third.

“It was impressive to see,” Walters said of the photos. “I think they really enjoyed themselves.”

Walters said the program is another way of incorporating the therapeutic program’s theme of readying students for life after school.

“In everything we do, it’s life skills and seeing things completed from start to finish,” Walters said.

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