CIESC Media Services Short Documentary ‘Broken Shells’ Wins Awards at Midwest Film Festivals

INDIANAPOLIS, IN — August 5, 2026 — Local filmmakers from CIESC Media Services, a department of the Central Indiana Educational Service Center (CIESC), are taking Hoosier storytelling on the road. Their short documentary, Broken Shells, is a darling of the Midwest film festival circuit, winning top awards at Loveland Film Festival and Torchlight Film Festival so far. The 12-minute film chronicles the journey of Jon Acton, a long-time Indiana educator whose life was upended when he and his two best friends received colorectal cancer diagnoses within a 10-month window.

Filmed entirely in Indiana, Broken Shells uncovers a deep friendship rooted in the classroom and school hallways between Acton, Keith Fessler, and Aron Bright. What began as an initial proof of concept from the video production team at CIESC Media Services evolved into a powerful narrative spotlighting educator resilience and the lifelong impact teachers leave on their communities.

“I talk about foxhole friends. These are the individuals that will jump into that foxhole with you, get muddy, get dirty without any hesitation,” said Jon Acton. In the film, Acton candidly reflects on facing the disease alongside his closest peers: “I was diagnosed with colorectal cancer… It is not the deadliest form of cancer, it’s just number two. When someone says you have cancer, the world changes.” 

“Our team of digital storytellers brings community focused stories to life every day. Broken Shells showcases the strength and fellowship of Hoosier educators,” said Paul Weller, Director of Media Services at CIESC. “It’s an honor and a privilege to share this short documentary across the Midwest and shine a spotlight on the impact educators make.”

Official Film Festival Selections & Screenings:

• Loveland Film Festival (Loveland, OH) — July 31, 2026 (2026 Best Documentary Winner) | Loveland Film Festival
• Torchlight Film Festival (Franklin, IN) — August 27, 2026 (2026 Best Indiana Documentary Winner) | Torchlight Film Festival
• Victory International Film Festival (Evansville, IN) — September 10-12, 2026 | Victory International Film Festival
• River Bend Film Festival (Goshen, IN) — September 3–5, 2026 | River Bend Film Festival

Take Action & Learn More:

View the official trailer, request a private community screening, or learn more about the film by visiting www.ciescmedia.org/broken-shells.

Broken Shells Official Press and Media Kit