Taylor
Barberio

Last year I recognized the need to inspire students in those in-between, confusing middle school years. The school lacked both a theater program and a band mentoring program. I was fortunate enough to have experience and training in both, and had previously attended Stella Adler, Stagedoor Manor, and Broadway Workshop. I met with the heads of each department.

First up was theater. With the guidance of the drama class instructor, I introduced Improvisation in a weekly after-school class. The program, now in its second year, has alum poised for their high school theater curriculum as well as newbies who are excited to join the troupe.

The band mentoring program had a slower start, requiring external funds. I was then a junior in the select High School Wind Ensemble (saxophonist) when I proposed it to the head of the department. We’re still waiting for funding, but it looks imminent. Still, despite I’m no longer in band, I’m asked if I would run it when (if?) it gets approved. Of course! I remember how much I received by mentoring others and want to pass that great feeling onto both the tutors and the middle schoolers. I don’t want to let the high school band department down either.