Student Filmmaker Becomes Posse Scholar

Francisco Castro, a senior at John Reagan High School, stood out during the Dynamic Assessment Process, Posse’s unique approach to student evaluation. His creativity and maturity earned him a full-tuition leadership scholarship to Carleton College in Northfield, Minnesota.

Originally from the Dominican Republic, Francisco and his family moved to the United States when he was 11 years old. Once in high school, he became a leader and innovator in clubs and through the creation of documentaries. He participates in art, debate, and does a weekly television show that is broadcast in classes as part of the Audio Visual Club.

Francisco also directed and produced a documentary entitled “Berliner Mauer” about the Berlin Wall and the citizens of Berlin. The documentary was one of 10 regional finalists for the Texas Oral History Award, which recognizes oral history projects that preserve community history.

“The whole experience was really eye opening,” said Francisco. “It made me realize that I want to have an impact in the world by communicating stories that spark conversation and ignite change.”

Francisco is preparing to study international relations and plans to join the Peace Corps following graduation. He and the nine members of his Posse will be the first Scholars from Houston to attend Carleton, which has been recruiting Scholars from Chicago since 2000.