About Us

The primary goal of the Media, Arts, and Technology Institute (MATI) is to provide dynamic project-based programming that reinforces basic academic skills, empowers students with a voice, builds self-esteem, and connects students with their community. MATI’s programs are designed to provide offerings in the arts, technology, and media that enhance educational resources and focus on the individual needs of underserved youth. By providing a team of professional artists, technology experts, and dedicated volunteers, MATI offers a unique education with individual academic support and encouragement.

Launched in December 2005, as a private non-profit, MATI has partnered with public and private educational institutions to provide in-school and after-school activities, designed to meet the academic needs of under-served youth. In the first two years of operation, MATI provided services at Harriet Tubman Middle School in Computer Graphics and in Photography. During the summers of 2007 and 2008, MATI worked in partnership with The Moore Street Community Center to provide video production classes for Jefferson and Roosevelt students who were behind in academic credits needed for graduation.

In the spring of 2008, MATI began offering programming at Open Meadow Middle School (OMMS). MATI has provided newspaper, digital photography, 3-D animation, and media literacy classes at OMMS. For the fifth year in a row MATI will be continuing media literacy classes during the 2011-12 school year.

In the fall of 2010, MATI expanded its services to Humboldt School by offering a journalism class that creates a school newspaper. In addition to continuing services at OMMS and Humboldt in 2011, MATI is now offering a unique drama program at Beach School.