From documentarian Terry Kawles:

New York video content producer and former Stevens Point native Terry Kawles announced the World Premiere of his full-length documentary “OPPORTUNITY: The P.J. Jacobs H.S. Story” is set for Monday, February 13 at 7pm at the Sentry Theater in Stevens Point.

The documentary will explore the New Deal Era history of how the P.J. Jacobs High School (now Jr. High) was funded, designed and constructed. It will weave the school’s Great Depression background with architectural insights and a personal on-camera interview from the last surviving person who was part of the construction crew that built it, as well as former students and teachers sharing their most cherished memories.

Kawles, who serves as the documentary’s producer and director said, “So many aspects of P.J. Jacobs’ history are unique. From its Art Deco design and the exquisite attention to architectural detail, to being a byproduct of the Great Depression’s WPA and PWA programs. We hope to entertain, and maybe even surprise folks with parts of the story they didn’t know. In that way, folks might gain a greater appreciation of what a marvelous piece of history – and what a unique and beautiful building they have for a district school.”

P.J. Jacobs High School – now a junior high school, had its formal dedication on June 1, 1938, and served as the community’s high school until SPASH opened in January 1972. Board President, Meg Erler, stated on behalf of the District, “We are excited about the project and grateful to Mr. Kawles for spearheading it. Countless graduates have walked through the halls and gone on to make our community great.”

Premiere Open to the Public

The premiere, sponsored by non-profit Create Portage County, as well as corporate sponsors The Worth Company, Ellis Construction, and Delta Dental, is open to the public. Tickets are available online through www.eventbrite.com or at the door. Doors open at 5:30, with the premiere beginning at 7pm. All premiere ticket sales will help continue Create Portage County’s Fox Theater project.

“Folks attending the world premiere will be treated to a real Hollywood experience; including a walk on the red carpet and their photos taken in front of the world premiere’s ‘step and repeat’ banner,” said Kawles. “The premiere will show a rich part of local history, and the people who attend help Stevens Point’s Fox Theater become a working theater again.”