Historic New Mexico School Transforms into Modern Film Tech Haven
In a groundbreaking move, the historic Kearny Elementary School in Raton, New Mexico is undergoing a remarkable transformation to become a cutting-edge film and technology training center. Spearheaded by El Raton Media Works, this venture promises to revitalize the local economy and provide ample opportunities for the youth in and around Raton.
Breathing New Life into History
Originally constructed in 1936, the art deco style Kearny School is a key landmark in northern New Mexico. According to The Durango Herald, this monumental project requires over $2 million for essential renovations, including structural repairs to the building’s foundation and roof. Community leaders and various state and federal agencies are rallying behind this significant initiative.
Economic Growth Through Education
The brainchild behind this ambitious plan, Ann Theis of El Raton Media Works, highlights the potential impact on the local economy. Raton, lacking in other major industries, stands to gain significantly from the infusion of film and technology training. “We aim to attract film productions and high-tech industries, offering local students the skills necessary to succeed in these fields,” Theis explained.
Raton’s City Manager, Rick Mestas, also underscores the importance of this project in countering the region’s “rural brain drain.” He emphasizes the facility’s strategic location to draw students and filmmakers from not only New Mexico but also adjacent states like Southern Colorado and Northern Texas.
Preservation Meets Progress
Maintaining the historic integrity of the Kearny School is central to the renovation effort. The building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and as Theis notes, preserving this heritage adds to the project’s cost. Yet, this balance between modernity and tradition will enrich the educational atmosphere, providing inspiration for budding film-makers.
Cultivating Future Talent
El Raton Media Works is already building a vibrant educational community through their film-making classes for middle and high school students. With the recent success of student-produced films winning top honors at the 2025 Film Prize Junior Film Festival, the center is proving to be a fertile ground for future talent.
As the construction progresses, plans are in place to convert the old gymnasium and cafeteria into state-of-the-art XR studios. Despite budgetary challenges posed by post-pandemic economic shifts, the phased approach promises to deliver on its goals efficiently.
A Beacon for Creative Minds
The anticipation for the facility’s completion extends beyond just education. It represents a beacon of growth and opportunity for Raton—a place where creativity meets innovation, providing students with the credentials to thrive in the burgeoning film and tech landscape.
With the first cohort expected to receive film technician certificates by the end of the school year, the Kearny School’s transformation stands as a testament to the power of education to shape futures. As students walk through those historic doors into a new realm of possibilities, Raton’s cultural and economic tapestry is poised for a historic shift.
