Next Generation Angel Award Winners
MSGA high school junior, Elayna Weintz, and middle school student, David Miranda, were honored to receive national awards for their documentary films. This prestigious award, given by The Better Angels Society in conjunction with National History Day, recognizes the country’s most outstanding, young film-makers.
"The Next Generation Angels Awards is an annual prize sponsored by The Better Angels Society in coordination with National History Day®. The award is presented to six middle and high school documentary filmmakers to recognize excellence in well-researched history filmmaking in the model of Ken Burns. Each year, The Better Angels Society celebrates the six student winners with a series of events that will enhance their knowledge and skills, including a mentorship session with Ken Burns and the Library of Congress Lavine/Ken Burns Prize for Film Finalists. Additionally, all Next Generation Angels Award films receive a copyright and will exist in perpetuity in the Library of Congress."
Miranda v. Arizona: A Turning Point in Safeguarding Individual Rights
The Congo Crisis: an Independence, a Murder, and a Capitalist Takeover
As part of their award, David and Elanya had the unique opportunity to participate in a mentorship session with Ken Burns himself. They also attended a private reception with the finalists for the Library of Congress Lavine/Ken Burns Prize for Film, offering them a front-row seat to the world of professional documentary filmmaking.
Even more remarkably, their award-winning films will receive official copyright and will be preserved in perpetuity in the Library of Congress, ensuring that their voices and stories will continue to educate and inspire generations to come.
At MSGA, we believe in giving students the freedom to pursue real work that matters. David and Elanya’s success reflects not only their dedication and talent but also the supportive environment that empowers all our learners to follow their passions, ask big questions, and change the world.
We couldn’t be prouder of these young filmmakers. Their recognition at the national level is a reminder that when students are given voice, choice, and the opportunity to do meaningful work, incredible things happen. Congratulations!