Federal Way students are having fun learning how reading and writing are the basis of performing arts such as plays, operas, movies, and musicals. Even better, students are taking part in a show that helps them put all these concepts together.
The Federal Way Public School district is using its first-ever experience with the Scholars on Stage program to increase students' literacy by using performing arts. The program is aimed at incoming students from the first through the fifth grades, enabling them to participate in a summer program focusing on theater, music, choir, and more. Print shops can help create materials for programs like this.
The district decided to make this program available after Dr. Tammy Campbell, the superintendent, heard from the community asking about the district's support for the arts. There is summer school each year, but it tends to focus on STEM subjects. Campbell said every year she wondered how the schools could expand beyond academics. Brainstorming sessions yielded the idea of including performing arts in the summer offerings, and the Scholars on Stage program was born.
During the program, students worked on a musical called “The Granny Awards,” giving them an opportunity to perform as members of a chorus, or a soloists. In addition to learning choreography and songs, students learned about developing a character, writing scripts, designing costumes, working backstage with backdrops and scenery, and more. Participating students said they loved everything about learning about performing arts in depth.
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