A significant project is underway to transform the historic Kearny School in Raton, New Mexico, into a high-tech film and technology training center. The building, constructed in 1936, requires over $2 million in essential repairs, including work on the foundation, drainage, and roof. Ann Theis, the leader of El Raton Media Works, a nonprofit involved in the initiative, emphasized the project’s community backing, alongside support from state and federal agencies.
“There’s not a lot of other industry here,” Theis stated, highlighting the need for growth in technical training to attract both film productions and high-tech industries to the region. Raton City Manager Rick Mestas echoed this sentiment, noting that new educational and job opportunities could mitigate what he described as a “rural brain drain.” He pointed out that local schools often prepare students for college, but many do not return to their hometowns after graduation.
Raton’s strategic location positions it well to draw students and filmmakers from across New Mexico, as well as Southern Colorado and Northern Texas. New Mexico is already a hub for film production, attracting numerous projects annually. Theis mentioned that the stabilization and repair work on the Kearny School is scheduled for completion this spring. Following this phase, plans include converting the former gymnasium and cafeteria into an extended reality (XR) studio and production space.
Budget estimates for this next phase of the project are currently under review, as rising construction costs due to post-pandemic inflation, supply chain disruptions, and tariffs have significantly impacted financial planning. “We’ve moved to a phased approach to stay on schedule and within available funding,” Theis explained.
Preserving the historical integrity of the Kearny School, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is a key consideration in the renovation. “That was another part of the component of why it was so expensive: to make sure that we were preserving the integrity, especially the front of the building,” Theis said.
Funding for the project has come from various sources, including the New Mexico State Capital Outlay, which supports public use facilities, alongside federal economic development programs and philanthropic contributions. Theis expressed commitment to continuing efforts to secure financial support.
In the meantime, El Raton Media Works has started offering film-making classes for middle and high school students. This spring, Raton students achieved notable success at the 2025 Film Prize Junior Film Festival, competing against over 200 films from 88 schools across New Mexico. One film, titled “Time Kids,” won both the Best Middle School Sci-fi/Fantasy Award and the Audience Choice Award for Middle School. Another student film, “Demons and Angels,” received the Audience Choice Award for High School.
Additionally, some students are earning both high school and college credits through Santa Fe Community College. Theis anticipates awarding the program’s first film technician certificate at the end of the current school year, marking a significant milestone for the initiative.
As the renovation progresses, the community remains hopeful that the new center will foster innovation and attract creative talents, ultimately reshaping the economic landscape of Raton and beyond.
