Arts and education
We help Heights kids
learn, grow, and have fun!
Our Programs
Heights Middle School Shorts is a three-week mixed-media film arts camp for Cleveland Heights-University Heights middle school students.
HMSS Film Scores
Students write and produce music for the films of Heights Middle School Shorts. This FREE after school program is available to all 6-8th grade CHUH School District students.
HMSS Profiles
Open to Heights High 9th and 10th graders, the students of HMSS Profiles create documentaries to feature Heights Alumni Hall of Fame members in the BIPOC community.
HMSS Trailers
HMSS Trailers introduces CHUH 5th graders to the film arts while preparing them to participate in Heights Middle School Shorts.
Join our Community and Make a Difference
We’re dedicated to providing Cleveland Heights and University Heights youth, particularly those on non-traditional pathways, an opportunity to discover their artistic abilities and vocational interests in the film and television industries. Please join us by donating your time or money to Building Heights programs.
$65k
Donations Raised
150
Students in 7 Years of Camps
5
Collaborative Partnerships
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
I think Heights Middle School Shorts was great and fun. I learned that making a movie is a long process and it takes patience. Also, I met a lot of new friends.
Christian Davison / 2023 Heights Middle School Shorts Camper
Screenwriter, Vacation Plan
This was my first year at HMSS and I really enjoyed it. I think it was super interesting how filming works and how long it takes. I’ve met some pretty cool people during the process too.
Scarlett McMahon / 2023 Heights Middle School Shorts Camper
Director, Vacation Plan
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can attend Building Heights programs?
Building Heights programs are open to students who live in Cleveland Heights and University Heights. HMSS Trailers is designed for 5th graders. Heights Middle School Shorts is open to Cleveland Heights and University Heights residents in grades 6-8. HMSS Profiles is for 9th and 10 graders who attend Heights High.
How are students selected to particpate in BH programs?
Each program has different requirements, but all students must complete on online application. Applications are evaluated based on a variety of criteria, including statements of interest, of course, but also past access (or lack of access) to enrichment activities, perceived student leadership and performance skills, and the like. We are keen to have students in the program who are open to personal growth and learning to work together to set and achieve challenging objectives.
How much do Building Heights programs cost?
Because our goal is to ensure diversity in the camp and provide access to CHUH students who may not traditionally have opportunities to participate in camps of this type, we’re committed to keeping the camp free of charge as many students as possible.
Are students with special needs eligible for Building Heights programs?
Yes. All of our programs are open to every interested Cleveland Heights and University Heights student. Students with special needs are encouraged to apply for our programs, where we help students learn to believe in themselves, harness their creative potential, and work with others to make something they’re all proud of.