Last week, I had the privilege of watching a variety of Middle School drama performances ranging from a couple of versions of Shakespeare (5th grade) to teen issues (8th grade).  As I watched, a few thoughts occurred to me.

First, I was struck by the high quality of acting on display.  You can certainly find talented actors in most schools, but to find several dozen in each grade is staggering.  I'm sure that is a tribute to our students, who work extremely hard at their roles, and the drama program--and teachers--as a whole.  It's amazing to see these students achieve at this extraordinary level!

Second, the audiences--made up of the actors' peers--were extraordinarily well behaved.  It isn't easy to watch Shakespeare if you are 10 or 11 years old, or to sit quietly during a scene in which 14-year-olds act out the dangers of substance abuse, but our students did just that.  This is a tribute to the expectation here that we respect each others' work, and the expectations set at home that theater is entertainment to be enjoyed and appreciated.

And finally, I was reminded that our students in drama class are not just learning about theater.  They are working on their reading and writing skills, improving their public speaking abilities, and learning to think analytically about issues beyond the day-to-day of class.  What a great way to become even stronger scholars.

Needless to say, I'm looking forward to the next set of plays!

In unrelated news:  Just a quick reminder that we have no school on Monday, January 21st in honor of Martin Luther King, Jr.'s birthday.  Teachers will also be finishing grades and comments, which will be open for parent viewing mid-week.

Robert Cooke

Middle School Director

rcooke@moundsparkacademy.org