WHO IS A STUDIO TEACHER?
The term “studio teacher” is often misleading. In California, a Studio Teacher is responsible, by law, for the health, safety and moral well-being of the child or children working on the film. The term “welfare worker” is sometimes used. A Studio Teacher in California is a credentialed secondary teacher who has been certified by the Labor Commissioner as a Studio Teacher.
You can’t just use someone who has a teaching credential – not in the State of California.
As a general rule, a certified Studio Teacher must be present whenever a minor is working.
In addition, the legal guardian or parent of the minor must be present the entire time the child is working – and within sight and sound of the child. Relatives, neighbors or babysitters are not legal substitutes – even if they have written permission from the parent or legal guardian.
A Studio Teacher has the absolute discretion to remove a minor from a production – without any repercussion – if the Teacher feels that the health, safety and/or moral well- being of the minor(s) may be compromised. Because of this responsibility for the health, safety and moral well-being, the Studio Teacher is required even when school is not in session including weekends.
If you are using an infant 15 days to six months of age you must also have a Nurse present on the set. You must also provide an “adequate facility” removed from the worksite where the baby can eat and/or sleep without being held. An infant of this age cannot be at the place of employment for more than 2 hours – or work for more than 20 minutes. (Remember, rehearsal time is work time.) An infant cannot be exposed to light of greater intensity than 100 foot-candles for more than 30 seconds at a time. The use of infants younger than fifteen days is not allowed.
FINDING A QUALIFIED STUDIO TEACHER
There are several options when looking to hire a qualified studio teacher.
- Local 884 is the IATSE group that represents, among other categories, studio teachers. They have many members that are willing to work on student films. Their studio teacher referral office is: 818-559-9600. You may also email the office at Businessrep884@gmail.com
- Stella Pacifica is a service representing studio teachers, welfare workers, baby wranglers, acting coaches and interpreter. 818-464-5425
- Ask your fellow classmates for a referral. They are always a good resource for crew recommendations.
- Conrad Hurtt, studio teacher. Contact him by email or phone: (310) 930-5003.
- Chase Nordman, studio teacher. Contact him by phone: (312)-522-2892.
- On Location Education for studio teacher services.
WAIVER OF STUDIO TEACHER
No one has the authority to “waive” the Studio Teacher requirement.
A Minor/Studio Teacher Confirmation Form must be filled out and submitted to the Head of Production prior to filming.
For a guide on working hours for minors in the entertainment industry, click here.