MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WSFA) – C-SPAN honored Booker T. Washington Magnet High School 10th grader Carson French for a documentary he produced as part of a project to commemorate America’s 250th birthday.
C-SPAN challenged middle and high schoolers across the country to examine how the Declaration of Independence is still relevant and still has power by exploring: its influence on a key moment from America’s 250-year history — or — how the values stated in the foundational document touch on a contemporary issue impacting them or their communities.
Through this project-based learning experience, students engaged in in-depth research, critical analysis, and original storytelling to explore matters of both personal and national importance. C-SPAN received more than 1,800 documentary submissions from nearly 4,000 students representing 38 states and Washington, D.C., underscoring the competition’s broad national reach and civic impact.
BTW Magnet High School student Carson French’s documentary, “When Equality Ends at the Prison Gates,” was a 2026 honorable mention and earned him a $250 prize.
French’s documentary, “When Equality Ends at the Prison Gates,” was a 2026 honorable mention prize winner and earned him a $250 prize.
“As we recognize America’s 250th anniversary, this year’s StudentCam participants masterfully documented important political as well as societal issues and key moments from our nation’s history through compelling videos that highlight the values and enduring legacy of the Declaration of Independence,” said C-SPAN’s Director of Education Relations Craig McAndrew. “Each of their prize-winning videos is sure to spark meaningful reflections among viewers across the country and inspire future generations of filmmakers. On behalf of everyone at C-SPAN, congratulations to the exceptionally gifted young people who triumphed in the 22nd annual competition!”
C-SPAN is funded by America’s cable, satellite and streaming television companies as a commercial free public service.
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