Delmarva Christian School student MaryKate Dougherty’s short film, “The Way Out,” was recently featured during the High School Showcase of the Ocean City Film Festival at Flagship Cinemas in Ocean City, Md.

MaryKate created the film last fall as part of a photography and cinematography class led by graphic design teacher Josh Kline. Students in the course were challenged to develop and produce their own short films, applying storytelling, cinematography and editing techniques learned throughout the semester.

Serving as both writer and director, MaryKate led the creative vision for “The Way Out.” After completing the project, she submitted it to the festival, where it was selected for the High School Showcase. She was the only student from Delaware whose work was featured in the program.

“Serving as the writer and director was definitely challenging because it was my first time making a film, so I was learning as I went,” MaryKate said. “Seeing it on the big screen was surreal. It really gives you a different perspective on filmmaking, especially when you’re writing and trying to imagine how the audience will experience the story.”

Students from Delmarva Christian’s fall photography and cinematography class, along with current photography, cinematography and film production classes, attended the screening to support MaryKate and experience the festival together.

MaryKate’s achievement highlights the creativity, dedication and emerging talent of Delmarva Christian students as they explore visual storytelling and media production in the classroom.

Delmarva Christian School is committed to providing students with academic excellence in a Christ-centered environment.