When I moved from Philadelphia to South Carolina in the 6th grade everything was different. The culture I had known and grew up with was completely changed and making friends was a real change for me. Fortunately, in 7th grade I started playing trumpet at school and a whole new world of friends opened up to me. Not only did I make great friendships, but the confidence I had playing my horn helped me to open up to really everyone in my life. I finally knew who I was and who my people were!

Arts Education matters because the arts are a springboard to deeper learning!

Although not every student in my class will go on to be a professional performer, theatre is a fantastic tool for the development of conscious, social, well-rounded citizens. Theatre training develops a higher level of empathy, compassion, social awareness, and overall personal confidence through curiosity, collaboration, and creativity. I teach because I believe in the transformative power of theatre and the welcoming, accepting community that an arts education experience brings to students!

Because of arts education I have been able to express my passions openly and work to create a space for everyone to feel welcome. Because of Arts Education, students have the opportunity to build friendship, teamwork, leadership, and of course, their talent. Not only does it improve your talent, but music and help physically and psychologically as well.

To me, Arts Education means that students are given a platform to grow in their talents while being given opportunities to get exposed to training and adjudications which help prepare us for future aspirations and career goals.