Who should attend?
Heights Middle School Shorts programming is open to students in grades 6-12 who live in Cleveland Heights and University Heights. HMSS I, is open to 30 students and is intended for students in grades 6-9. HMSS II is open to six students from grades 8-12.
We encourage students of all backgrounds, especially those who haven’t traditionally had access to performing or musical arts opportunities, to apply.
How much does HMSS cost?
Building Heights recognizes that cost can be a challenge for students seeking to explore creative educational and vocational training and opportunities. Accordingly, we offer full scholarships when we can to eligible students to maximize the number and diversity of students we reach. One of our founding goals is to provide opportunities for students who may not traditionally get them, so we are committed to making HMSS I free of charge for as many participants as possible.
HMSS I Tuition
Tuition for HMSS I Film Camp in 2026 is $450 for campers who attend CHUH public schools, and $475 for campers who reside in Cleveland Heights or University Heights but do not attend CHUH District Schools.
As noted above, HMSS I offers a limited number of full scholarships for students of CHUH public schools (applicants must request scholarships when submitting their application).
We also offer reduced rates for families with multiple children attending HMSS I:
- $375 for additional siblings who attend CHUH schools
- $400 for additional siblings who do not attend CHUH schools
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HMSS II Tuition
Tuition for HMSS II Film Camp in 2026 ranges from $500- $1600 for all student campers who attend CHUH public schools and/or reside in Cleveland Heights- University Heights but do not attend CHUH District Schools, to travel for one week on location. Pricing is based on student fundraising efforts and location. This price includes travel costs, lodging, meals, ground transportation, and other incidentals.
How to apply for scholarships?
To be considered for a scholarship, students must check the “Scholarship” option on the application form. Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis, so early application is recommended!
Scholarship decisions are based upon multiple criteria, including student statements of interest, 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.
Can private and charter school students attend Heights Middle School Shorts?
Yes. We welcome private school students who live in Cleveland Heights and University Heights. Indeed, we have established relationships with those schools to ensure their students are aware of the camp and application process.
Can campers go on family trips or attend other camps while HMSS is in session?
Yes! We want campers who want to make movies, even if they have other obligations that prevent them from attending HMSS every day. We are happy to work with campers and their families to accommodate scheduling conflicts.
When is camp held?
HMSS Camp I – for current 6-9th graders – runs from February 7 through June 14, 2026.
Students who enroll in HMSS I will be assigned to film crew roles as part of separate Production Teams, each of which will be responsible for writing, directing, and producing an original film.
HMSS Season 6 Film Screening
Screening for HMSS I will be held on Sunday, June 14, 2026.
HMSS Camp II – for current 8-12th graders – runs from June 22-28, 2026.
Students who enroll in HMSS II will be a part of a single Production Team that will write, direct and produce a short documentary film highlighting a subject of interest while also filming their experience on location.
Are students with special needs eligible for the camp?
Yes. The Heights Middle School Shorts film camp is open to every Cleveland Heights and University Heights middle schooler. Students with special needs can apply for the camp, 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.