To see a film description of the student film contest CLICK HERE.

1st Annual Mini-Documentary Competition

Presented by The California Arts and Sciences Institute (CASI)

A documentary storytelling competition for high school students. Create a short, nonfiction film profiling a local Monterey Peninsula nonprofit organization that is making a meaningful impact in our community. Get creative, get connected with something you care about, and help bring awareness to organizations making a positive difference.

Grades: 9–12+
Film Length: 4–8 minutes Mini-Documentaries or Feature-Length Documentaries
Awards: Cash scholarships
Submission Deadline: May 11, 2026
Premiere Date for Nominees: Early June

How to Participate

Complete the registration form (one form per pair of students). Registered students will be paired with a CASI youth mentor.

Youth Mentoring (Monthly)

CASI Youth Mentoring meets monthly at 4:00 PM at The Barnyard.

Questions about the contest, how to apply, or contest restrictions:
Mike Buffo, Organizer
mike@houseof8media.com