Spotlight on: Graphic Arts & Digital Communication

Post by: Tom Mungovan

In the CRTC’s Graphic Arts and Digital Communications Program, students learn all about becoming a successful graphic designer, from understanding the codes and principles of graphic design to learning typography, color theory and composition. Students learn and gain proficiency at software programs such as Photoshop, Illustrator and InDesign to become well versed and knowledgeable in making the journey from interested novice to budding expert to the industry.

Projects are crafted to represent a real graphic design job in the industry today, while maintaining connections and satisfying State competencies. Students are trained to focus on technical abilities in their designs that promote a professional edge. A little known secret about the Graphic Arts computer lab classroom is one of the best around. It has the most up-to-date software, the fastest computers, 22" wide monitors for optimal graphic workspace, and each computer has a pen tablet for student use. Each student has access to three different printers as well. Being that this industry is presentation and critique heavy, students constantly hone their skills on the same tools used throughout the industry.

A variety of outside speakers come in and "talk shop" with the students; it’s a no-holds barred kind of conversation that opens a lot of eyes. As there are many paths for success, multiple colleges come in to speak directly to the students. The purpose is to entice students to think about college as another avenue to get where they want to go.

Graphic Arts is also aligned with Running Start, a great opportunity for students to be dually enrolled in high school and college at the same time. Simply by signing up, paying a very small fee and taking this class, students can earn up to 12 credits of college without ever having to set foot on an actual college campus! The Seniors or Level 2 students are required to go on internships to a variety of local businesses, including Say It In Stitches and NH Bindery which further enhances their understanding and experiences of being a successful graphic designer.  

In the coming year, the program looks to replace all computers and monitors, upgrades to CS6 from CS5, and explore Adobe Photoshop ACA Certification for students.

This environment of teaching students for 2 years 5 days a week builds up trust and solid relationships. A few of past GA students who are currently enrolled in graphic studies at college, have been e-mailing me their updates. Carl Heath tells me, "thanks Mr. Mungovan for making me so bored in college", and Louise Murphy tells me that, "I feel like I can teach this Photoshop class with everything you taught me already!" I think its fair and honest to admit that I love what I do and take great pride in providing the best education and positive experience I can for my students. Feel free to get in touch with me for any reason, e-mail: tmungovan@concordnhschools.net or 603-225-0800 x6264.